Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) remains a significant health concern, especially for infants. The American Lung Association has initiated a campaign to inform parents and caregivers about ways to protect young children from severe RSV illness and potential hospitalization.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), two preventive options were recommended in 2023: a preventive RSV antibody for infants and some young children at increased risk, or an RSV vaccine administered during weeks 32-36 of pregnancy. Data from the 2023-24 season confirmed the safety and effectiveness of these methods in preventing hospitalizations due to RSV.
"For babies, RSV symptoms can be mild, like those of a common cold, or they can be very severe and even life-threatening. As a parent or caregiver, the last thing you want is for your baby to be so sick they need to be hospitalized. Thankfully, there are now preventive options available that are proven to significantly reduce hospitalization from RSV," said Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association. "This year, the options will be widely available, so we recommend that individuals who are pregnant, parents and caregivers speak with their healthcare provider about what they can do to prevent severe RSV in their babies."
The preventive antibody provides an additional defense against RSV infections by mimicking naturally produced antibodies. This immunization is not a vaccine but gives direct protection through administered antibodies. It is advised for all infants younger than eight months born during or entering their first RSV season and certain young children at increased risk between eight and nineteen months.
Another protective measure is receiving an RSV vaccine during pregnancy between weeks 32-36. This method allows protective proteins to pass from mother to child, providing immunity lasting about six months post-birth when infants face heightened risks.
RSV spreads through close contact with infected individuals or via contaminated objects. While most people experience mild symptoms akin to a common cold, it can become severe for some individuals.
This fall's educational campaign by the American Lung Association includes collaboration with Sanofi. It aims to educate expectant parents of infants and toddlers on recognizing symptoms of RSV and steps for prevention.
For more details on preventing severe illness caused by RSV, visit Lung.org/rsv.
