Helping Prevent Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

Overview

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that can cause mild cold-like symptoms in most people. However, it can lead to serious lung infections, especially in infants, older adults, and individuals with underlying medical conditions. RSV spreads easily from person to person through coughing and sneezing, direct contact, and touching contaminated surfaces.

Vaccines and Immunizations

There are currently three RSV vaccines available in the US:

Arexvy is a vaccine indicated for active immunization for the prevention of lower respiratory tract disease (LRTD) caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in

• Individuals 60 years of age and older.
• Individuals age 50 through 59 years who are at increased risk for (LRTD) from RSV.

mResvia is a vaccine indicated for active immunization for the prevention of lower respiratory tract disease (LRTD) caused by respiratory synctyial virus (RSV) in

• Individuals 60 years of age and older.
• Individuals 18 through 59 years of age who are at increased risk of LRTD caused by RSV.

Abrysvo is a vaccine indicated for

• Pregnant individuals at 32 through 36 weeks gestational age for the prevention of lower respiratory tract disease (LRTD) and sever LRTD caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in infants from birth through 6 months of age
• The prevention of LRTD caused by RSV in individuals 60 years of age and older
• The prevention of LRTD caused by RSV in individuals 18 through 59 years of age who are at increased risk of LRTD caused by RSV

Monoclonal antibodies
There are currently two monoclonal antibody injections for RSV prevention in infants and children:

Clesrovimab: Clesrovimab is an antibody that is given as an injection to prevent RSV lower respiratory tract disease in neonates and infants who are born or entering their first RSV season.

Nirsevimab: Nirsevimab is also an antibody that is given as an injection to neonates and infants who are born or entering their first RSV season and children up to 24 months of age who remain vulnerable to severe RSV disease through their second RSV season.

Other Prevention Recommendations

In addition, there are some actions people can take to reduce their chances of getting RSV infection:

• Wash hands frequently: Regularly washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds can help remove any viruses that may be on the hands.
• Use hand sanitizer: If soap and water are not readily available, using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol can also help kill the virus on the hands.
• Avoid close contact with sick individuals, especially if they have symptoms like coughing or sneezing.
• When coughing or sneezing, cover the mouth and nose with a tissue or use the elbow to prevent respiratory droplets from spreading in the air.
• Avoid touching the eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands as this can provide an entry point for the virus into the body.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
• Stay home when feeling unwell
• Practice good respiratory hygiene

If you have concerns or questions about RSV or any respiratory illness, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.