RSV

What is RSV?

RSV stands for respiratory syncytial virus, which is a common respiratory virus. RSV infection can occur all year round in Newfoundland and Labrador. However, RSV infections peak between November to May. RSV usually causes mild illness in most people, but RSV can lead to serious complications in seniors, infants, and people with health conditions such as lung or heart disease.

Serious RSV infections can lead to infections in the lung (pneumonia), inflammation in the small airways of the lung called bronchiolitis, difficulty breathing, temporary stopping of breathing in infants, admissions to hospital or intensive care unit or even death.

Once infected with RSV, infections can happen again. However, infections in older children and younger adults are less severe.

What are the symptoms of RSV?

Symptoms begin about 2 to 8 days after being exposed to RSV. People with chronic health conditions such as heart disease or lung disease such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may experience an asthma attack or worsening of their condition.

Common symptoms of RSV may include:

  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Coughing
  • Sneezing
  • Wheezing
  • Fever
  • Decreased energy or appetite

Infants less than 6 months old are at particularly higher risk of severe RSV infection. Infants with an RSV infection may have:

  • Irritability (they cannot be calmed or soothed)
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Signs of dehydration such as less wet diapers or not drinking/feeding
  • Temporary stop breathing
  • Decreased activity or difficulty waking up or staying awake

If you notice these symptoms in an infant, please seek emergency medical care or call 911.

Severe symptoms of RSV in older individuals may include:

  • Difficulty breathing or feeling short of breath
  • Chest pain or pressure that does not go away
  • Confusion
  • Difficulty waking up or staying awake
  • Pale, grey or blue coloured skin, lips or nail beds

If these symptoms occur, please seek emergency medical care or call 911.

How long does it take to recover from RSV?

In mild infections, the symptoms may take one or two weeks to recover. However, when people are sick with severe RSV infections, they may take longer to recover.

Who should get an RSV immunization?

People who are 75 years and older and people 60 years of age and older who live in  senior congregate living settings are also eligible RSV vaccines free of charge.

Starting May 1, 2026, infants less than 6 months old are eligible for RSV immunization. Infants should receive this RSV immunization when before they leave the hospital after birth. In the rare situation when an infant cannot or has not received RSV immunization before leaving the hospital, they can access it at their local public health office.

Children who are less than 2 years old and have certain health conditions are eligible for RSV immunization during their first and second RSV season. They should be referred to the Janeway RSV program who will assess if they are eligible.

When should I get an RSV immunization if I am eligible?

The best time for seniors to get an RSV immunization is in late summer or early fall before the number of RSV infections peak between November to May. However, you can receive RSV immunization year-round.

Newborns should receive RSV immunization before they leave the hospital after birth because they are most at risk for severe RSV infection in their first 6 months of life.

Why should I get an RSV immunization?

If you are an adult who is eligible for RSV immunization, you are in the age group and population that is at higher risk of severe RSV infection. The RSV immunization has been shown to reduce visits to the emergency department and admissions to hospital due to RSV.

What RSV immunizations are available?

There are two RSV immunizations for adults available in Newfoundland and Labrador that work in the same way. They are called, Arexvy and mRESVIA. Newborns receive a RSV immunization called Nirsevimab.

Are there other ways I can prevent myself from getting infected with RSV?

Yes! Immunization against RSV is the most effective way of preventing infections with RSV. There are other things you can do to prevent infection.

  • Wash your hands often and before touching your eyes, nose or mouth
  • Cough and sneeze into the crook of your elbow, your sleeve or a tissue (not your hand)
  • Keep yourself or your child home from school, daycare or work if you or your child are feeling sick
  • Sanitize and clean frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs or counters
  • Limit close contact with others while you are sick
  • Limit contact with others who are sick
  • Do not share utensils, bottles, food or cosmetics

Who should not get an RSV immunization?

People with allergic reactions to the ingredients in the vaccines should not get the RSV immunization. The contents of immunizations authorized in Canada can be found at this link: Contents of immunizing agents authorized for use in Canada

How many RSV doses do I need to get? Do I need to get an RSV immunization every year?

A single dose of RSV vaccine is needed to provide protection. Current evidence shows that a booster of RSV vaccine is not required at this time.

Can I get the RSV immunization at the same time as Flu and COVID-19 vaccines?

Yes. RSV vaccine can be given at the same time, or at any time before or after other vaccines including COVID-19 and Flu. All three, COVID-19, Flu and RSV immunizations may not be available at one immunization clinic for a single visit.

What are the side effects of RSV immunization?

Most side effects of RSV vaccine are mild such as pain at the immunization site, fatigue, headache, and muscle or joint pain.