RSV

What is RSV?
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of respiratory illness that affects the airway and lungs, especially in babies and young children. It is a leading cause of hospitalization in infants under 2 years of age in Canada.
What can I do to protect my infant against RSV?
There are safe and effective ways to keep your baby from getting an RSV infection. These include:
- A preventive antibody medication* that is given to a baby/child (80-90% effective)
*This is not a vaccine. It works by acting like the antibodies that are made by our bodies to prevent infection.
If you are delivering your baby at STEGH, your baby is able to receive medication before you leave the hospital. - A vaccine that is given to a pregnant person between 32-36 weeks or pregnancy (57-68% effective)
Please speak to your obstetrician or primary care provider if you are interested in receiving this vaccine. - If you do not have a Primary Care Provider:
- Southwestern Public Health is offering the vaccine to pregnant women. Book an appointment online: http://www.swpublichealth.ca/booking
- First Five West Elgin (Clinics in St. Thomas and West Lorne) - By appointment only. Call 519-768-1715, ext. 2301 for more info or to book an appointment.
If your baby is born during the RSV season, it is recommended that the medication be given soon after birth to provide protection during the early months when your baby is most vulnerable.
If you have a child two years of age or under, it is recommended that they receive the preventative antibody medication. Please speak to your pediatrician or primary care provider, who can provide you with more information about how and where to access the medication.
What if I don't have a primary care provider?
If you have a baby or child under the age of two, and do not have a primary care provider, contact Southwestern Public Health directly to book an appointment: http://www.swpublichealth.ca/booking.
If your child is between the ages of 0-5 without a doctor or nurse practitioner, contact First Five (West Elgin Community Health Centre). There are clinic locations in St. Thomas and West Lorne. By appointment only: 519-768-1715, ext. 2301.
Is there a charge for the medication?
No. It is publicly funded; there is no charge.
Learn more
Click here to learn more about RSV. - RethinkRSV
RSV Prevention - Ontario Health
What are the symptoms of RSV?
Symptoms are similar to those of a cold or flu. They include:
• Cough
• Runny Nose
• Fever
• Drinking/eating less
• Low energy or being unusually tired
• Wheezing
• Irritability
Seek medical attention right away if your child is having trouble breathing, is dehydrated, and/or their symptoms are getting worse.