RSV

Talking Points

What is RSV?

Updated April 20, 2026

1. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common virus that infects the lungs and breathing passages like the nose, mouth, and throat. Most people infected with RSV will experience mild illness and recover within one to two weeks at home. However, infants, young children, older adults, and other certain groups are at higher risk for severe RSV disease. 
2. Symptoms of RSV may include a runny nose, a lower appetite, coughing, sneezing, fever, and wheezing.
3. Infants who get RSV usually show symptoms, unlike adults, who can sometimes get RSV and not have any symptoms. In children under 6 months, symptoms of RSV may include irritability, breathing trouble, and decreased eating, drinking, and activity. 

RSV Transmission

1. RSV is spread when infected people cough, sneeze, or have direct contact with others. Less commonly, you can get RSV by touching a surface contaminated with the virus and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes. 
2. Only a healthcare provider can administer a test to confirm an RSV infection. Contact a healthcare provider if you have questions about RSV infection, vaccination, or testing.

RSV Vaccination and Prevention

1. Vaccination: The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) recommends that adults ages 75 and older and adults 50-74 who are at increased risk of severe RSV disease receive the RSV vaccine anytime of year. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that pregnant people who are 32 to 36 weeks pregnant between September and January get the RSV vaccine to protect their babies from severe RSV. The RSV vaccine provides the best protection against severe RSV to babies from birth to 6 months old when a baby’s immune system is not ready to develop immunity on its own.
   • RSV Vaccination for Adults: There are three single-dose RSV vaccine options available for adults. No additional doses are recommended after the first dose.  
   • RSV Vaccination for Pregnant People: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends one single-dose RSV vaccine for pregnant people in their third trimester. The Pfizer vaccine, Abrysvo, is safe and effective for pregnant people and creates antibodies that pass onto the baby while in the womb and after birth through breast milk.  The pregnant parent should talk to their health care professional about RSV vaccination to determine what is best for them and their baby.
   • RSV Immunization for Babies: If the pregnant parent does not receive an RSV vaccination, babies born during or near the RSV season, typically between October and March, can receive an RSV immunization available for babies.  Monoclonal antibodies from the RSV immunization provide direct and fast protection, whereas vaccines require the immune system to learn how to create its own defense against a disease.
2. Other Forms of Prevention: In addition to vaccination for high-risk groups, washing your hands, covering your coughs and sneezes, sanitizing surfaces, and avoiding direct contact with others when sick can offer additional protection against RSV. 

RSV Treatment

1. Most people recover in one to two weeks and can treat symptoms at home with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications for pain and fever as needed.  
2. Contact a healthcare provider if you or your child is having difficulty breathing, not drinking enough fluids, or symptoms are worsening.