State Department of Health Reminds New Yorkers to Protect Infants Against RSV

Two Options to Help Prevent RSV in Infants: Maternal Vaccine for Pregnant Persons or Monoclonal Antibody Nirsevimab for Infants

ALBANY N.Y. (October 2, 2024) – The New York State Department of Health reminds New Yorkers to protect infants against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This common respiratory virus can be harmful to very young children and older adults. Nirsevimab is an injectable monoclonal antibody that prevents severe RSV disease in infants.

"No one wants their baby to be sick. We do not have specific medicine to treat respiratory syncytial virus, we do have two ways to prevent this however," State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. "Nirsevimab is a one-time injection that protects your baby throughout the entire season. Another option is for the pregnant person to get the maternal vaccine before they have their baby. We are fortunate to have two safe, effective choices."

There are two options to help prevent RSV in infants: a maternal vaccine for the pregnant person that protects the baby or preventive antibodies given directly to the baby after birth. Pregnant people in weeks 32 through 36 and six days are encouraged to get the vaccine during the months of September through January to protect infants from birth to six months. Only Pfizer's vaccine Abrysvo is approved for use during pregnancy.

In August, Dr. McDonald issued a statewide standing order allowing pharmacists in New York State to administer the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccination to eligible individuals including adults 75 years and older, people 60-75 with underlying medical conditions and pregnant people.

RSV is spread through contact with droplets from the nose and throat of infected people when they cough and sneeze. RSV can also spread through dried respiratory secretions on bedclothes and similar items. Direct contact with the virus, such as kissing, can also spread the virus. RSV can remain infectious on hard surfaces for several hours and on skin for shorter amounts of time.

Typical symptoms resemble the common cold: runny nose, coughing, sneezing, fever, wheezing, and decreased appetite. Mild or unnoticeable illness may occur. However, RSV infection can also result in pneumonia, especially in the very young, the very old, or those with weakened immune systems. Individuals can also be infected with multiple respiratory viruses, which can cause more serious complications.

If an individual or their child has symptoms consistent with RSV, or any respiratory illness, contact a health care provider right away who can help with diagnosis, treatment, and care.

While sick, stay home from school or work, cover cough/sneezing, wash hands and avoid close contact and clean frequently touched surfaces.

Learn more about Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) here.