RSV (Respiratory syncytial Virus)

Respiratory syncytial (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. However, in some cases, RSV can cause more severe infections such as bronchiolitis (an inflammation of the small airways in the lungs) and pneumonia (an infection of the lungs). Some groups, including infants and older adults, are more likely to develop severe RSV and need hospitalization. 

Resources

RSV is a seasonal illness with most cases occurring in late fall and winter.

For most people, RSV causes symptoms like a bad cold and may include:

  • runny nose
  • coughing
  • sneezing
  • wheezing
  • fever
  • decrease in appetite and energy

In infants, symptoms may include:

  • irritability
  • difficulty breathing
  • decreased appetite or feeding
  • decreased activity

RSV can cause severe illness in young infants and older adults. Complications of RSV include bronchiolitis (inflammation of small airways in the lungs) and pneumonia (severe infection in lungs) which could lead to hospitalization, ICU admission or death.

ABRYSVO Vaccine

  • Individuals aged 75 years & up
  • Individuals aged 60 years & up residing in long-term care in the Yukon

SYNAGIS (monoclonal antibodies) **

  • high-risk infants up to age 2
  • The Yukon is currently transitioning to a newer and longer acting products that will be available for all infants. 

BEYFORTUS (monoclonal antibodies) **

Is a long-acting passive immunizing product 

  • All high-risk infants up to age 2
  • AND all infants 8 months and younger during the RSV season

**There is currently no RSV vaccine for infants and children. Medicines to prevent RSV, called monoclonal antibodies, may be given to babies and children who are more likely to have severe RSV infection. Please talk to your health care provider for more information.

  • Common reactions to the immunization may include redness, tenderness and swelling at the injection site.
  • Some people may develop a fever, irritability or discomfort. These are generally mild and last 1 to 2 days.
  • Side effects of the immunization are easily relieved by: Applying a cold/damp compress to the site, administering a pain-relieving medication such as acetaminophen if needed. Talk to health care provider if your symptoms are severe or last longer than 48 hours.
  • It is important to stay in the clinic for 15 minutes after getting any immunization because there is a rare possibility of developing a severe allergic reaction which is treatable at the clinic. This happens to fewer than 1 in 1 million people. If it happens after you leave the clinic, call 911 or the local emergency number.

Find out how to get immunized