Mandy Moore talks the stress she experienced over BOTH her sons coming down with life-threatening RSV

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In the year 2023, Mandy Moore experienced every parent’s worst fear as both of her sons were diagnosed with a life-threatening and dangerous virus.

The 41-year-old actress, who tragically lost her home during the wildfires in Los Angeles in January, has disclosed that her sons August (commonly known as Gus) and Oscar (often called Ozzie) have been diagnosed with Respiratory Syncytial Virus, more commonly known as RSV.

This virus might initially manifest symptoms similar to a common cold, however, it has the potential to rapidly lead to infections within the lungs and respiratory system.

Based on information from the Mayo Clinic, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is quite prevalent, but it can lead to serious infections for infants under 12 months old, elderly individuals, and those suffering from heart or respiratory ailments.

Moore expressed to People that it was an incredibly hopeless sensation she experienced,” sharing the two sons they have with her husband, Taylor Goldsmith, who is 40 years old.

To clarify, although we managed to avoid a hospital visit, both my husband and I were still quite shaken and deeply worried.

In September 2024, when Moore welcomed her newborn daughter Lou into the world, she was determined to shield her from potential health issues.

Despite Lou being due in September, traditionally considered after the onset of RSV season that spans from autumn to spring across most of the country, we were resolute about finding an appropriate solution,” she noted.

She and Goldsmith talked to their pediatrician, Dr. Danny Bruckner about it. 

The actress from This Is Us emphasized that regardless of when a baby is delivered – whether before or during the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) season – it’s essential to provide an additional protective measure, she emphasized.

Bruckner suggested the use of Beyfortus, a monoclonal antibody drug, as a means to shield infants and young children from contracting RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus).

The National Institutes of Health report that annually, anywhere from 58,000 to 80,000 young children, aged five years or younger, are admitted to hospitals due to RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus). Tragically, this virus claims the lives of approximately 100 to 300 children within the United States each year.

Moore remarked, “On October 1st, Lou managed to secure the earliest available appointment. After getting vaccinated, I felt incredibly assured and relaxed, as I knew she would now have protection during her initial Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) season.

As a parent, I believe this circumstance turned out to be the most beneficial one. It allows for learning from errors, and in this instance, I felt particularly well-prepared compared to before.

In a collaboration, the musician from the band “In Real Life” along with Dr. Bruckner have teamed up with the pharmaceutical and healthcare company Sanofi to educate other parents about protective measures available for their children. This is aimed at helping them avoid the same distress and anxiety that Moore and Goldsmith endured.

In matters concerning your child’s health, it is an extremely individual matter of preference and judgment. I strongly recommend that you discuss this with your loved ones, especially your doctor, to make the most suitable decision for your unique situation.

Bruckner added that he’s seen a good outcomes since introducing the medicine to his patients.

Previously, due to restrictions, we found ourselves needing to admit five to ten newborns each winter for RSV treatment. However, after the introduction of Beyfortus, I haven’t had to hospitalize a single baby for this condition during the same period.

Moore, along with renowned mothers like chef Gaby Dalkin, journalist Elaine Welteroth, gymnast Shawn Johnson East, and astronaut Katya Echazaretta, have joined forces under the name “Mom Squad” to promote a message far and wide.

She mentioned that mothers often need support from one another. Since no one truly understands the challenges of motherhood like another mother, it has been incredibly beneficial for her to rely on her ‘mom squad’ friends.

Communicating this important information about protecting babies from RSV could significantly benefit many. Sharing what we know can truly make a meaningful difference.

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2025-09-10 19:34