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Stay Protected This Season: The Benefits of RSV Vaccination

posted by Angel Smith on Thursday, September 26, 2024

What is RSV?

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a widespread respiratory virus that affects the lungs and airways. While it often causes mild, cold-like symptoms, it can be more serious, particularly for infants and older adults. Most individuals recover in a week or two, but RSV is a leading cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in children under one year old. Premature infants and those with chronic lung conditions or weakened immune systems are at heightened risk for complications. In fact, RSV is the leading cause of hospitalization for infants under one year.

Benefits of Vaccination

RSV vaccines offer crucial protection, especially for infants, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. They help prevent severe RSV infections that can lead to pneumonia, bronchiolitis, and hospitalizations, particularly in high-risk groups.

Abrysvo: This maternal RSV vaccine is administered during 32-36 weeks of pregnancy, reducing the risk of RSV infection in newborns during their first six months. It's also available for adults aged 60 and older.
Beyfortus: A monoclonal antibody treatment for infants under 8 months and high-risk infants aged 8-19 months during RSV season, providing essential protection against RSV.

Additional Preventive Measures to further reduce the risk of RSV infection:

Wash hands frequently, especially before handling your baby.
Avoid crowded places where RSV can easily spread.
Keep your baby away from individuals exhibiting cold-like symptoms.
Regularly clean and disinfect common household surfaces, such as doorknobs, toys, and countertops, as RSV can survive on surfaces for several hours.

Where to Get Vaccinated

For Older Adults: You can receive the RSV vaccine at local pharmacies.
If Pregnant: Visit your doctor’s office to discuss the Abrysvo vaccine.
For Infants: Check if your baby meets the criteria for Beyfortus at the Clay County Public Health Immunization Clinic.

Stay safe and healthy this RSV season by getting vaccinated and taking preventive measures!