RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild to moderate illness with flu-like symptoms. RSV has a seasonal pattern with cases rising during the cold months of the year (late fall to early spring). It spreads easily when people cough or sneeze.
Most children will catch RSV by age 2. This illness is a common cause of bronchiolitis infections among infants and young children. Bronchiolitis is a lung infection that causes airways to become inflamed, leading to a buildup of phlegm (secretions). RSV can also cause pneumonia.
The elderly and people with chronic diseases or immunosuppression have a higher risk of serious infection and complications from RSV. Reinfection is common. Medication and vaccination are available.
Since Fall 2024, Quebec has offered medication to all babies under 8 months and to some between 8 and 19 months with certain health conditions. The medication is called Nirsevimab and acts like a vaccine to help fight RSV infections.
A vaccine called Abrysvo is also available to people 60 and older and pregnant women. Talk to a nurse at the CMC for details.
RSV spreads easily:
RSV can also spread when you:
Symptoms are like a cold and usually develop 4 to 6 days after exposure:
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Sore throat
• Low appetite and energy
• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Fever
• Wheezing
Symptoms can develop at different phases. Infants can have different symptoms, including irritability, decreased activity, and breathing difficulties.
If your child is under 2 and has any of the following symptoms, go to the CMC or emergency room.
RSV infections are not treated with antibiotics. They are typically treated with supportive care:
Wash your hands frequently with soap and water and dry them with a clean towel, especially:
Limit close contact with an infected person. Avoid shaking hands, kissing, sharing cups and eating utensils.
Disinfect surfaces and toys frequently.
Practice good respiratory hygiene habits. Cough in your elbow or a tissue, wear a medical mask if you have symptoms and you are in a public space.
If you have regular contact with an infant or baby, stay up to date with your immunization. Get your booster vaccines at least 2 weeks before contact with infants.
Medication and vaccination are also available for RSV.
Since Fall 2024, a medication called Nirsevimab is available to all babies under 8 months, and to some between 8 and 19 months if they have certain health conditions.
This medication, which is a monoclonal antibodies, acts like a vaccine to help fight RSV infections. It gives the baby antibodies needed to fight potential infections, reduces the risk of severe infections, complications, and hospitalizations. This medication’s effects last for at least 6 months. Talk to a nurse at the CMC for details.
Babies aged 8 to 19 months who have the following health conditions can get Nirsevimab: bronchopulmonary dysplasia, congenital heart disease or hemodynamically significant cardiomyopathy, cystic fibrosis, Down syndrome, significant blockage of airway secretion clearance, or having undergone bone marrow, stem cell or organ transplant.
Since Fall 2024, a vaccine called Abrysvo is available to people 60 and older who live at the Elders’ Homes in Mistissini and Chisasibi, or who are under the Home Care Program.
This medication and vaccine are recommended by the Protocole d’immunisation du Québec (PIQ).
The vaccine is also available at a cost for pregnant women between 32 and 36 weeks of their pregnancy, and people 60 and older who want to be immunized against RSV.
