The RSV Vaccine [Video]

RSV is a common respiratory virus that can cause cold-like symptoms. It can be so severe that around 2% of children affected will need to be hospitalized for treatment. “Oftentimes needing oxygen support, breathing treatments, those kind of things,” said Dr. Mote. Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and excess mucus production. “They really can’t clear it out, so they don’t eat as well, drink as well, not as energetic. And then also the telltale sign that we look for is more that of bronchiolitis, which would be breathing rapidly more than 60 -respirations a minute.”

While RSV is traditionally seasonal, here in Florida it’s seen year-round. Dr. Phillip Mote said recently RSV has been affecting more and more adults over 60, but there is good news. In 2023, the FDA approved the first RSV vaccine. “The first one that was approved was more in adults who are 60 years and older, and that can help prevent it in the older population.”

Pregnant women can receive a different version of the vaccine and it can pass the protection to their children for their first 6-months of life. “The RSV vaccine specifically is a type of antibody, so it’s called a monoclonal antibody, that literally is in your system to then help fight off RSV itself. So almost it’s like taking Tamiflu ahead of time to fight off the flu virus, but you just have it in your body so when you come across the RSV virus, your body can fight it,” said Dr. Mote.

There is also a version of the vaccine that can be given to infants after they’re born. Speak with your doctor to see which RSV vaccine would be best for your individual situation.

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