RSV can have serious consequences in babies under 6 months old
RSV is an annual concern
RSV stands for respiratory syncytial virus. It is a common and highly contagious virus that follows a seasonal pattern, which usually lasts from the fall to the early spring.
Almost all children will get RSV at least once before they turn 2.
Why young babies are at higher risk for severe RSV infection
Newborns and babies in their first few months of life have less developed immune systems than older children. That means they have fewer defences against viruses like RSV.
When very young babies catch RSV, the risk of consequences such as needing to be cared for in the hospital is much higher. Preemies are born before their lungs have fully developed, placing them at even greater risk of complications from an RSV infection.
If RSV moves into the lower respiratory tract (the lungs), it can cause mucus and fluid to build up in the lungs and cause the small airways to swell up, making them even narrower. Since babies have small lungs and air passages, this type of infection can make it more difficult for them to breathe.
Did you know that you can help provide your baby with immune defences even before they are born?
What it might look like if your baby has RSV
In young babies, RSV can have a severe impact and might look like:
Short, shallow, or rapid breathing
Difficulty breathing— you may notice their chest muscles and skin pull inward with each breath
Decreased activity or unusual tiredness
Irritability
Wheezing
Decreased appetite or feeding
RSV can become serious
Someone with severe RSV infection may need to be cared for in the hospital.
RSV can spread to the lower respiratory tract and cause infections in the lungs, which can be serious, particularly for young babies.
In babies, RSV can result in difficulty breathing and is the most common cause of:
- Viral pneumonia (inflammation of the lungs)
- Bronchiolitis (inflammation and congestion of the airways)
If a baby’s breathing becomes too difficult, they may need oxygen or the help of a ventilator to breathe.
- More than 75% of all babies hospitalized for RSV were 6 months old or younger.*
- RSV is common and highly contagious.
- RSV can have serious consequences.
- RSV is the most common cause of pneumonia and bronchiolitis in babies.
- ABRYSVO is the only vaccine available to help protect infants from RSV by immunizing pregnant individuals.
More information about RSV in babies
*Based on US data from 2006 to 2011.
ABRYSVO is a vaccine to help prevent disease of the lower respiratory tract (lungs) caused by RSV (respiratory syncytial virus). ABRYSVO is given to pregnant individuals (from 32 through 36 weeks’ gestation) to protect their infants from birth through 6 months of age, and individuals 60 years of age and older. As with any vaccine, ABRYSVO will not protect 100% of those who receive it. ABRYSVO is not a treatment for RSV infection or its complications. Like all vaccines, ABRYSVO can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.
For more information, please consult the Product Monograph or call 1-800-463-6001.