Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a virus that spreads very easily. When someone with RSV coughs, tiny droplets go into the air and land on surfaces. RSV spreads when other people breathe in these droplets or get them in their eyes, nose, or mouth. RSV infections are most common during “RSV season”, which in most of the U.S. lasts from October to April. The timing of RSV season may be different in some areas.  

RSV causes a lung (or respiratory) infection. The infection can be mild, like a common cold, but it can also cause severe symptoms that may require a hospital stay.   Though RSV can cause a lung infection in patients of all ages, babies under 1 year old are especially at risk for severe RSV. In fact, most babies will catch RSV at least once before their first birthday. RSV is the leading reason babies under 1 year old are hospitalized.

Symptoms of RSV in babies

Mild Symptoms

• Stuffy or runny nose
• Fussiness
• Decreased appetite
• Fever

Severe symptoms

• Fever
• Fast or unusual breathing
• Cough and wheezing
• Trouble breathing, making it hard to eat or drink
• Sleeping more than usual

How to prevent RSV

To help protect your child, make sure to:

• Wash your hands often
• Clean surfaces that might  have droplets from a sick person
• Keep babies under 1 year old away from people who may have RSV

There are now new ways to protect babies from RSV. Babies under 1 year old can be protected through a vaccine for pregnant mothers or a preventive antibody for babies.

• RSV Vaccine (Abrysvo®) : This is given to mothers during pregnancy. Between September and January, pregnant women at 32 – 37 weeks can get 1 dose of Abrysvo®. This helps the mother’s immune system fight  RSV and passes protection to the baby, lowering the chance of severe RSV.  
• Preventative Antibody Nirsevimab (Beyfortus®) or Clesrovimab (Enflonsia^®): This is given directly to the baby. Babies less than 8 months old at the start of their first RSV season, or babies born during RSV season can get 1 dose of nirsevimab or clesrovimab if their mother didn’t get the RSV vaccine during pregnancy or if she got it less than 14 days before the baby was born. Babies born during RSV season should get the dose around birth, before going home from the hospital. If not, the dose can be given at the doctor’s office. Some babies need a second dose of nirsevimab to stay protected during their second RSV season, between 8 and 19 months old.

We Can Help

Imagine Pediatrics is dedicated to improving the health and lives of children with special health care needs. We provide 24/7 virtual and in-home care and support. Our integrated medical, mental health, and social care is personalized to meet the needs of your child. We don’t replace your child’s current care team. We work with them to give your child expanded access to the care they need, whenever they need it. Our services are often at no cost when they are part of your child’s existing health plan benefits. Learn more about us at here or call us (833) 208-7770. 

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This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals for medical concerns. In case of emergency, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room immediately.