RSV season is right around the corner. Make sure your family is protected before it arrives.

What Is RSV, and Why Does It Matter?

RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is extremely common. Nearly all infants are infected by the time they turn 2. For most older kids and adults, it looks like a cold. But for babies, RSV can be serious: it’s the leading cause of hospitalization in infants under 1 year old, and it can spread to the lungs and cause significant breathing problems.

In most of the U.S., RSV season runs October through March, typically peaking in December or January.

Starting October 1: RSV Antibody Shots at Our Office

We’re offering the RSV immunization for infants (nirsevimab/Beyfortus) starting October 1, ahead of the season’s arrival.

Who Should Get It

• All infants under 8 months old heading into their first RSV season
• Some children age 8–19 months with chronic lung or heart disease who are at increased risk for severe RSV and entering their second RSV season

If your baby didn’t receive the RSV vaccine through their mother during pregnancy (or was born less than 14 days after that vaccine was given), this shot is especially important.

How Well Does It Work?

It is extremely effective in reducing RSV hospitalization by 90%! A direct dose of protective antibodies work right away and last at least 5 months, covering your baby through the heart of the season. 

A Reminder About the Maternal RSV Vaccine

This is a deep dive, so be prepared:

Pregnant women who deliver during “RSV season” (September –March 1) are offered RSV vaccination between 32-36 weeks to pass protective antibodies to your baby before birth. If you received it more than 14 days before delivery, your baby won’t need the antibody shot.

Pregnant women who deliver babies who are born in the “off-season” (March through August) are not offered RSV vaccination because the protection lasts about 5 months, which would not help during RSV season. Spring and summer babies have only one way to be protected against RSV, which is by getting the RSV antibody shot.

 If you’re unsure whether you qualify or already received this vaccine, just ask us or your OB/Gyn.

Why Getting Ahead of the Season Matters

RSV spreads easily! It spreads by direct contact with contaminated surfaces (the virus can last for HOURS on surfaces like toys, doorknobs, counters, etc) and the respiratory droplets from coughs or sneezes. A single antibody shot is a simple, effective way to greatly lower that risk before the virus starts circulating.

Schedule Your Baby’s RSV Shot

Appointments for the RSV antibody shot are quick and easy to schedule. Call 411 Pediatrics to get your baby protected before the season ramps up.

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Source: American Academy of Pediatrics, “RSV Immunizations: 2 Ways to Protect Babies,” José R. Romero, MD, FAAAS, FAAP, FIDSA, FPIDS