Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

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Disease Information

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a seasonal respiratory illness that causes cold-like symptoms in many individuals. In infants and young children, RSV may cause fever, cough, wheeze, decreased appetite and irritability. RSV is the most common cause of severe respiratory infection amount infants and young children—up to 3% of infants are hospitalized each year due to RSV. Both children under the age of two and older adults are at increased risk for severe RSV infection.

Immunizations

• During the 2023-24 season, several new RSV immunizations became available for infants, pregnant people and certain adults 60 years and older.
• CDC recommends one of two new products to protect infants from severe RSV—nirsevimab (trade name Beyfortus) or a maternal vaccine (Abrysvo) given to those who are 32-36 weeks pregnant during September through January. For most infants, either nirsevimab or the maternal vaccine is recommended to prevent RSV, but not both.
• Two RSV vaccines products are also available for adults 60 years and older who are at increased risk for severe RSV.
  

• Asking individuals from outside the household to mask around young infants indoors
• Staying away from others when you are sick, if possible
• Covering coughs and sneezes
• Washing hands often
• Disinfecting frequently touched surfaces

Disease Reporting

RSV is not a mandated disease for reporting incidence. Oregon follows the CDC definition for onset and offset. Please see RSV surveillance data for more information.

Data

• Oregon's respiratory virus data dashboard
  
• RSV surveillance data

See Also

• CDC information on RSV
• RSV prophylaxis guidelines (American Academy of Pediatrics)