Respiratory syncytial virus
RSV program update
The Ontario government has expanded the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) prevention program to include anyone 75 years and older.
The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes respiratory illness, particularly in infants, young children, and older adults, affecting the lungs and airways. It can lead to a serious lung infection called bronchiolitis, which can cause difficulty breathing.
There are 2 RSV prevention programs in Ontario that take place before and during the RSV season, which is generally from late fall to spring.
- Infants and high-risk children which also includes pregnant individuals.
- Adults.
Talk to your health care provider about protecting your family against RSV to help reduce your risk of severe illness.
Learn more: Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) prevention programs.
Infants born on or after April 1, 2025, and younger than 8 months at the time of immunization are eligible for the RSV monoclonal antibody (called Beyfortus) during the RSV season. Children 24 months or younger who have certain medical conditions that put them at higher risk for severe RSV illness are also eligible.
Immunizing infants with the monoclonal antibody is the recommended way to protect them from RSV. The monoclonal antibody works by giving your child antibodies, offering immediate protection against RSV. It can be given at birth in the hospital or after birth at your doctor’s office.
Beyfortus is not being offered at Peel Public Health clinics.
Primary care providers
If you have a primary care provider such as a doctor or nurse practitioner, they can order the monoclonal antibody (Beyfortus). Talk to your primary care provider about getting it at their office.
Additional options
The providers listed may offer the monoclonal antibody (Beyfortus) to eligible infants and children without a primary care provider. Since this list is not updated regularly and services may change, we recommend contacting the clinic for the latest information.
Bramalea Community Health Centre
40 Finchgate Blvd., Suite 224, Brampton
905-451-6959
The Four Corners Clinic
Westwood Square, 7205 Goreway Dr., Mississauga
905-677-9599
Mississauga Paediatric Care Clinic
101 Queensway West, 7th floor, Mississauga
905-272-9900 ext. 240
CarePoint Health
2 locations in Mississauga
905-362-3508
Learn more: Infant and high-risk children RSV prevention program
Pregnant individuals are eligible to receive a single dose of the Abrysvo vaccine. Abrysvo is the only RSV vaccine that can currently be given during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor if you are currently pregnant and would like more information about getting the RSV vaccine.
To protect infants, giving the RSV monoclonal antibody (Beyfortus) to an infant is recommended over getting the RSV vaccine during pregnancy.
Abrysvo is not being offered at Peel Public Health clinics.
Learn more: Vaccination in pregnancy
The following adults are eligible for the RSV vaccine:
- All adults 75 and older.
- Adults 60 to 74 years who are at higher risk such as those living in long-term care, or with certain medical conditions.
Talk to your primary care provider (doctor or nurse practitioner) to receive the vaccine if you meet the eligibility criteria.
Eligible adults 60 years and older without a primary care provider can book an appointment at a Peel Public Health clinic by calling 905-799-7700 or toll-free 1-888-919-7800.
If you don't meet publicly funded eligibility for the vaccine, you can pay for the vaccine at a pharmacy with a prescription from your primary care provider.
Individuals who received a dose in a previous season do not require an additional dose this year.
Learn more: Adult RSV prevention program.
Severe reactions are very rare and may include trouble breathing, swelling of the face or mouth, hives, seizures, or fever over 40 C. Call 911 if you are having a medical emergency. Call or make an appointment with your health care provider. Report any severe reactions to your health care provider.
Access Health811 or call 811 (TTY 1-866-797-0007) for health advice and information 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
You can also book a free phone appointment with the VaxFacts clinic or SickKids Immunization InfoLine if you have questions or concerns about the RSV vaccine or any other vaccines.