Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that circulates during the fall and winter months.
Fraser Health will start supporting the BC Infant Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Immunoprophylaxis Program in Fall 2025.
What is Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)?
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus. It primarily affects infants and young children but can also cause mild to severe illness in adults, especially the elderly and those with weakened immune systems.
RSV infection is self-limiting in most individuals. However, in some cases, it can lead to pneumonia or other problems in some people, especially infants. It is important to watch the symptoms and seek medical attention if they get worse.
What are the symptoms of RSV?
When a respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection affects the nose and throat (upper respiratory system), symptoms are usually mild and resemble those of the common cold.
They include:
- cough
- stuffy or runny nose
- mild sore throat
- earache
- fever
Infants with RSV may also:
- have no energy
- act fussy or cranky
- be less hungry than usual
RSV infection sometimes leads to bronchiolitis or pneumonia or both.
Symptoms of these complications include:
- difficulty breathing, which may include breathing more rapidly than normal
- wheezing
- coughing that is getting worse. A child may choke or vomit from intense coughing
- Lethargy, increased tiredness, decreased interest in surroundings, or loss of interest in food
RSV antibodies to protect against RSV
Nirsevimab (BEYFORTUS®) contains pre-made antibodies that is given by injection and provides immediate protection against RSV. It provides protection against RSV for the entire season, usually October through March in BC.
Who should get the RSV antibodies?
Starting in the fall of 2025, Nirsevimab will be available for infants and children under 2 years of age that are at greatest risk of RSV complications.
Eligibility
- Prematurity
- Infants born 28-35 weeks of gestation and born after March 31, 2025
- Infants born < 28 weeks and discharged from birth hospital after March 31, 2025
- Chronic medical Conditions
- Infants and children under 2 years of age with specific chronic medical conditions
Infants who are in the hospital and eligible, can receive Nirsevimab in the hospital.
Infants and children under 2 years of age who are eligible, will receive a letter and can book an appointment to receive Nirsevimab at their local Public Health Unit.
If your child has already had RSV, they remain eligible to receive this antibody.
Immunization from a Public Health Unit
Call to book an appointment. Telephone booking is available Monday-Friday, 8:30am-4:30pm.
- 604-702-4906 for residents of Mission, Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Agassiz and Hope
- 604-476-7087 for all other areas of Fraser Health
Click here for a list of public health unit locations
Resources
- Respiratory Syncytial Virus: Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Infection | HealthLink BC
- Information on Nirsevimab
- Preventing Respiratory Illness: Handling respiratory illnesses | HealthLink BC
- Guide for Parents to know care options for your child: Parents’ guide to knowing your care options - Fraser Health Authority