What is RSV and why is it dangerous for babies like Shawn Johnson's son?

RSV is a contagious virus infecting the lungs and breathing passages, which can cause severe breathing difficulties in infants, as experienced by Shawn Johnson's son.

What is Beyfortus and how can it help protect children from RSV?

Beyfortus is an antibody injection approved in July 2023 by the FDA, given to newborns and young children to help treat and prevent RSV.

What advice does Shawn Johnson give parents about RSV?

Shawn Johnson advises parents to talk to their pediatrician and arm themselves with knowledge about viruses to better protect their children.

Home / Health / Shawn Johnson Fights RSV After Son's ER Visit

Shawn Johnson Fights RSV After Son's ER Visit

10 Jan

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Summary

Infant son Jett was hospitalized with RSV, struggling to breathe.
The FDA approved the antibody injection Beyfortus in July 2023.
Johnson now prioritizes protecting her children with knowledge.

Shawn Johnson Fights RSV After Son's ER Visit

Olympic gold medalist Shawn Johnson recently recounted a frightening incident where her infant son, Jett, was hospitalized due to RSV. The virus severely impacted his breathing, leading to an emergency room visit when he was just one year old.

This experience prompted Johnson to become proactive about respiratory illnesses, especially with a new baby due during peak RSV season. She sought guidance from social media friend Dr. Mona Amin and her own pediatrician. They discussed the varied presentation of RSV and recommended the drug Beyfortus, an antibody injection approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on July 17, 2023.

Johnson now emphasizes the critical importance of parental education and consulting pediatricians regarding RSV. She likens the attention she now dedicates to her children's health to the focus she once gave her athletic career, stressing the need for parents to understand each child's unique needs.