Respiratory Syncytial Virus clinic
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a major cause of respiratory illness in babies and young children, often leading to cold-like symptoms and sometimes severe infections like bronchiolitis. Premature babies and young infants can become very sick if infected. RSV affects the airway and lungs, especially in young children. It spreads easily through direct contact with an infected person or surface, and through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. RSV is most active from late fall to early spring.
Symptoms of RSV:
- Runny nose
- Cough
- Fever
- Wheezing
- Irritability
- Low energy or unusual tiredness
- Drinking or eating less
Seek medical attention if your child has trouble breathing, is dehydrated, or if symptoms worsen.
Speak to your family doctor or paediatrician for referral to the clinic.
If your baby was born in 2024 or under 2 years of age and at risk, and you want to book an appointment in the RSV clinic to immunize your baby, please call 416-242-1000 ext. 21400.
What’s New: Protecting Your Child from RSV
There are two main preventive options for RSV:
- Preventive Antibody Medication (Beyfortus™)
- What is it: Beyfortus acts like natural antibodies to help eliminate RSV.
- How is it given: A one-time injection, usually in the thigh muscle, providing protection for up to six months. Beginning November 1, 2024 it is administered at the hospital before discharge, by primary care providers, or through local public health units.
- Who is eligible to receive it:
- Babies born in 2024 before or during the RSV season.
- Children up to two years old at high risk of severe RSV.
- Vaccine for Pregnant Persons (Abrysvo™)
- What is it: Abrysvo is given to pregnant persons to protect their babies from RSV.
- How is it given: Administered between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy.
- How it works: Helps the pregnant person’s immune system create antibodies that are passed to the baby, protecting them until six months of age.
For additional protective measures, it is recommended that you:
- Washing hands often.
- Coughing or sneezing into your arm.
- Avoid smoking near your child.
- Breastfeed your baby for added antibodies.
- Stay home when sick and avoid close contact with sick people.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces regularly.
For more information, speak with your healthcare provider or review the PCMCH Fact Sheet.