What is RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)?

  • RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, coldlike symptoms. However, it can be dangerous for infants and children with high-risk conditions.

How does RSV spread?

  • RSV spreads from person to person like a cold virus, through contact with saliva, mucus or nasal discharge. It is the most common reason for hospitalization in children less than 1 year of age. Symptoms of RSV in babies can be variable.

What are the symptoms of RSV?

  • Usually, RSV results in an upper respiratory tract infection with fever, cough, and congestion. Sometimes, the virus infects the lower respiratory tract and causes fast breathing, belly breathing, and wheezing. Typically RSV symptoms are at their worst about 3-5 days into the illness.

How can I protect my child from RSV?

  • According to the CDC, administration reduces the risk of severe RSV disease by about 80%.
  • This winter season, there is a new injection called nirsevimab or Beyfortus to help prevent severe illness from RSV. Nirsevimab is a monoclonal antibody which provides passive immunity against RSV for about 5 months.
  • Children with high-risk conditions and infants aged 6 months and under are prioritized for administration.

Does HMG offer the RSV antibody?

  • Yes. HMG Pediatric offices in Kingsport, Bristol, and Abingdon have limited amounts of the RSV antibody currently available. Children with high-risk conditions and infants aged 6 months and under are prioritized for administration. According to the CDC, administration reduces the risk of severe RSV disease by about 80%.

    Please contact your HMG Pediatric office for more information about the RSV antibody or to schedule an appointment for administration.