Protecting babies from RSV during the holiday season

With the holiday season and cooler weather arriving, health authorities and medical experts are strongly urging families to take precautions against respiratory syncytial virus, commonly known as RSV. According to KSL, respiratory syncytial virus is the leading cause of hospitalization for infants nationwide. Carolyn Reynolds, executive director of the ambulatory clinical program at Intermountain Children's Health, noted that while current cases in Utah remain low, an increase is expected shortly. "I believe after Thanksgiving, before Christmas, RSV will raise its head, and we will start seeing it around," Reynolds stated. Parents are advised that RSV often begins with cold-like symptoms, including a runny nose, cough, or fever, making it difficult to distinguish from the flu. Medical experts emphasize that infants have young, immature immune systems that make fighting off various viruses challenging. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises seeking medical care if a child experiences breathing trouble, inadequate fluid intake, or worsening symptoms. To prevent severe illness, immunization options are available for both expectant mothers and infants. Pregnant individuals can receive the RSV vaccine between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy to transfer protective antibodies to the baby. Alternatively, eligible infants can receive an antibody shot directly after birth. During the 2024-2025 RSV season, 16,000 babies in Utah received protection, rendering them nine times less likely to be hospitalized. Additionally, children aged six months and older can receive a flu shot. Families can implement simple everyday precautions during holiday gatherings by frequently washing hands and asking guests to avoid kissing a baby's face. Reynolds cautioned parents against passing infants around to individuals whose health status is unknown. Most insurance plans cover the RSV shot without cost, while uninsured families can access it for free through Utah's Vaccines for Children program. Parents seeking guidance can contact their pediatrician's office or local county health department regarding flu shots and RSV protection options.