How to Protect Yourself from RSV

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common virus that causes cold symptoms including fever, runny nose, sore throat, and cough. The virus spreads easily and follows a seasonal pattern of October through April, peaking in late December. Infants and older adults with RSV infection are more likely to develop severe lung disease – such as pneumonia – requiring hospitalization. Monoclonal antibody drugs are available to prevent disease in infants.

Among those over 65 years, RSV is responsible for approximately 60,000-160,000 hospitalizations annually. Two shingle-shot vaccines were approved this year by the CDC for individuals 60 years of age and older after trials showed they prevented severe RSV lung disease. It is best to receive the vaccine before the onset of RSV season, which is available at medical practices and some pharmacies.  

In addition to the vaccine, other steps you can take to protect yourself from RSV and reduce the risk of spreading it to others include:

1. Wash your hands
2. Keep your hands off your face
3. Avoid close contact with sick people
4. Cover your coughs and sneezes
5. Clean and disinfect surfaces around you
6. Stay home when you’re feeling sick

To learn if the RSV vaccine is appropriate for you, talk with your medical provider.

Trey Dobson, MD, is the chief medical officer at Southwestern Vermont Medical Center.