AstraZeneca, Sanofi announce Beyfortus approved in Japan

AstraZeneca (AZN) and Sanofi’s (SNY) Beyfortus, a long-acting monoclonal antibody, has been approved in Japan for the prophylaxis of lower respiratory tract disease, LRTD, caused by respiratory syncytial virus, RSV, in all neonates, infants and children entering their first RSV season, and the prevention of RSV LRTD in neonates, infants and children at risk of serious RSV infection entering their first or second RSV season. Beyfortus is anticipated to be available for the upcoming 2024/25 RSV season, in line with existing Japanese guidelines. Iskra Reic, Executive Vice President, Vaccines and Immune Therapies, AstraZeneca, said: “The approval of Beyfortus means it is possible for the first time to prevent serious respiratory disease due to RSV for all infants in Japan and reduce the infectious disease burden on healthcare systems. Beyfortus reflects AstraZeneca’s commitment to the scientific development of preventive options to support the most vulnerable patient populations and we look forward to making Beyfortus available in Japan for the 2024/25 season.”