Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

RSV, is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Most people recover in a week or two, but RSV can be serious, especially for infants and older adults. In fact, RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lung) and pneumonia (infection of the lungs) in children younger than 1 year of age in the United States. It is also a significant cause of respiratory illness in older adults.

RSV Vaccine Recommendations

Vaccines are available to protect older adults from severe RSV. Monoclonal antibody products are available to protect infants and young children from severe RSV.

Adults 60 Years Old and Over

• Adults 60 years of age and older may receive a single dose of RSV vaccine (Arexvy, Abrysvo, or mResvia) using shared clinical decision-making.

Infants and Young Children

• 1 dose of nirsevimab or clesrovimab for all infants younger than 8 months born during or entering their first RSV season.
• 1 dose of nirsevimab for infants and children 8–19 months old who are at increased risk for severe RSV disease and entering their second RSV season.
• Note: A different monoclonal antibody, palivizumab, is limited to children under 24 months of age with certain conditions that place them at high risk for severe RSV disease. It must be given once a month during RSV season. Please see AAP guidelines for palivizumab.

Pregnant People

• 1 dose of Abrysvo is recommended during weeks 32 through 36 of pregnancy if vaccination occurs just before or during RSV season. 

If you have any questions about RSV or the products mentioned above, talk to your healthcare provider.

Prevention

People who have cold-like symptoms should:

• Cover their coughs and sneezes
• Wash their hands frequently and correctly (with soap and water for 15 to 20 seconds)
• Avoid sharing cups and eating utensils with others
• Refrain from kissing others

In addition, cleaning contaminated surfaces (such as doorknobs) may help stop the spread of RSV.

Treatment

Most RSV infections go away on their own in a week or two. Fever and pain can be managed with over-the-counter fever reducers and pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, with a healthcare provider’s approval. It is important for people with RSV infection to drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration (loss of body fluids).