RSV vaccine update
The new RSV vaccine has been approved, but we are not yet offering it. As soon as we are able to offer it to our patients, we will update our website.
Find information on RSV vaccination for infants, pregnant women and adults over 60 years of age on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.
What is Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common virus, affecting the airway and lungs, that we see in high volumes most winters.
The virus causes mild illness in most children and adults, causing cold-like symptoms and possibly some wheezing and coughing. In children ages 0 to 5, mucous production for the virus can plug lower airways and cause some breathing difficulties such as:
- Breathing fast
- Working hard to breathe
- Tiring easily
If this is the case, parents and caregivers should contact their pediatrician for advice. In the case of a clear emergency, children should be taken to the closest ER.
Treatment of the worst cases of RSV may require patients to receive some oxygen support, fluid injected into a vein to prevent or treat dehydration, and monitoring so doctors can tell if a patient is improving or needs more care. Our providers and staff are very well-versed in the care of RSV and the steps that can be taken to make patients comfortable and improve their illness.
What can parents and caregivers do to keep children healthy?
To support us in our efforts to keep children healthy, we ask that you do the following to avoid the spread of respiratory illnesses:
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Avoid being near people who are sick.
- Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Clean often touched surfaces such as door knobs.
We also recommend that children over 6 months of age are fully vaccinated for the flu and COVID-19.
For more information on RSV please visit RSV: When It's More Than Just a Cold - HealthyChildren.org