Respiratory syncytial virus
About the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), including prevention for infants, high-risk young children, and adults.
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 makes it hard to breathe.
RSV immunization with the human monoclonal antibody is now free for infants and high-risk children who are younger than 24 months. The RSV vaccine is now free for pregnant people, and high-risk adults who are 60 years or older. Talk to your health care provider about protecting your family against RSV to help reduce the chances of severe illness and hospital visits.
Infants and high-risk young children
Infants and children up to 24 months who are at high-risk of severe illness from RSV due to medical conditions are eligible for the RSV human monoclonal antibody (Beyfortus). The RSV monoclonal antibody provides ready-made antibodies for immediate protection. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) specifically recommends it for infants 8 months of age or younger.
Immunizing infants with the monoclonal antibody is the recommended approach to protect infants from RSV. It can be given to infants at birth, in hospital or at a doctor’s office.
Peel Public Health clinics
Peel Public Health offers RSV monoclonal antibody (Beyfortus) clinics for infants who are younger than 12 months, born in 2024, who may not have access to a doctor or primary care services.
You will need to book an appointment. Walk–ins are not available. A health card is not required. Call us at 905-799-7700 or toll-free 1-888-919-7800 to book an appointment.
Infants 6 months and older are also eligible to receive the flu and COVID-19 vaccines and will be offered at their RSV appointment. Separate appointments are not needed.
Learn more:
Vaccine during pregnancy
Pregnant individuals are eligible to receive a single dose of Abrysvo. Abrysvo is the only RSV vaccine that can currently be given during pregnancy. Abrysvo can be given based on discussion with your health care provider. It can be given at a doctor’s office.
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: RSV vaccine in pregnancy fact sheet
High-risk older adults
Abrysvo and Arexvy are 2 RSV vaccines that can be given to adults 60 years or older. Only certain high-risk adults 60 years or older are eligible for the vaccine. Talk to your health care provider to receive the vaccine if you meet eligibility.
If you don't meet eligibility for the vaccine, you can get it at a pharmacy with a prescription from your health care provider. However, you will need to pay out of pocket.
Individuals who received a dose in a previous season do not require an additional dose. Booster doses are not currently recommended.
RSV vaccine for older adults is not being offered at Peel Public Health clinics.
Learn more: RSV vaccine for older adult high risk fact sheet
More information
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 if you have questions or concerns about the RSV vaccine or any other vaccines.
