What is respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
RSV is a major cause of lower respiratory illness that affects the lungs and airways. Although the virus usually causes mild illness with cold-like symptoms, it can lead to more serious illness for infants, young children, older adults and those with underlying health conditions such as asthma, chronic heart or lung disease and a weakened immune system.
The Ontario government has expanded its RSV program to protect more high-risk populations during the 2024-2025 respiratory season. Starting in the fall, the following populations will have access to an RSV vaccine:
- All infants and children up to 24 months who are at high risk of severe illness from RSV are eligible for immunization. Immunization of infants is the recommended approach to protect them from RSV, however, immunization for pregnant individuals is also available, based on discussion with a health-care provider.
- Certain high-risk adults aged 60 years and older may be eligible for the vaccine. Adults aged 60 years and older who don’t qualify for the publicly-funded program can still purchase the vaccine with a prescription from their family doctor or other primary care provider.
The Ministry of Health recently released more guidance and information on its new RSV prevention programs for the 2024-2025 respiratory season. Find out more about eligibility for RSV protection by visiting the Ontario’s RSV prevention programs page.
If you are pregnant, talk to your health-care provider about currently available RSV protection. More information on where to get your child immunized in the KFL&A region will be added to this page when it becomes available in the fall.
To find out more information about RSV, including information for individuals, parents and caregivers, visit Ontario’s RSV page.