10/13/2026
Why are pediatricians THIS excited when the RSV immunizations arrive?
Because RSV is incredibly common, and for our littlest patients, it can be incredibly serious.
RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) affects almost all children by age 2. For many kids, it looks like a bad cold. But in babies, especially during their first RSV season, it can cause bronchiolitis, trouble breathing and feeding, and sometimes hospitalization.
The good news? We now have powerful ways to protect babies from severe RSV disease.
During pregnancy: Pregnant people can receive the RSV vaccine between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy during RSV season. The antibodies they make cross the placenta and help protect the baby during those vulnerable first months of life.
For babies: Infants can receive a long-acting RSV antibody called nirsevimab. It provides protection throughout their first RSV season and is recommended for babies younger than 8 months entering their first RSV season if they aren’t already protected through maternal vaccination.
For some higher-risk children: Certain children ages 8–19 months who are at increased risk for severe RSV disease are also recommended to receive nirsevimab before or during their second RSV season.
So when you see your pediatrician celebrating that shipment…this is why. More protection against one of the biggest causes of infant hospitalization? We get VERY excited about that. ❤️
Talk to your pediatrician or OB about which RSV protection is right for your baby.