RSV Frequently Asked Questions

RSV usually causes mild illness but, in some babies, it can become severe within just a few days,⁶ potentially leading to lung infections such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia.¹ These infections can cause swelling in the airways, which may make it harder for babies to breathe.⁷
 
Signs that a baby is struggling to breathe can include wheezing, grunting, or breathing faster than usual.*⁷

All Infants are at Risk of RSV Infection
2 out of every 3 infants will be infected with RSV before their first birthday.¹¹
90% of children will have had an RSV infection by age 2.¹¹
1 in 5 children under age 2 will require outpatient care due to RSV.¹²
1 in 50 infants will be hospitalized within their first year of life due to RSV.¹³
 
* Please note: this is not a complete list, other symptoms can occur and infants may not experience all of these symptoms. Other infections may also cause similar symptoms. When you are concerned about your child's health, seek medical advice.

Studies show that after RSV infection, the most common short-term complications in children are Acute Otitis Media (middle ear infection)¹⁴ and Pneumonia¹⁴
 
Infants who are reinfected with RSV may face significantly higher risks:

• 7.7 times higher risk of hospitalization¹⁵
• 9 times higher risk of pediatric intensive care (PICU) admission¹⁵
• 4.5 times higher chance of recurrent wheezing, which may persist for over 10 years¹⁵

In addition, for healthy full-term infants who were not infected with RSV during their first year of life have a 26% lower risk of developing childhood asthma later on compared to those who were infected.¹⁶ This highlights the importance of early RSV protection.

Bronchiolitis is an illness caused by an infection in the smallest airways of the lungs, which are called bronchioles.¹ When bronchioles become inflamed and swell, mucus can build up and block them, making it difficult to breathe.²

Some babies may develop pneumonia when RSV goes deep into their lungs, causing inflammation.^7,17,18 This leads to fluid and pus building up in the tiny air sacs in their lungs, making it difficult and painful for them to breathe.^7,17,18

2 out of every 3 babies will get infected before their first birthday.¹⁹

During their first year of life, babies’ lungs and immune systems are still developing, which makes them vulnerable to RSV disease. As a result, infants face a higher risk of severe RSV complications and hospitalization.^20-23

During this vulnerable stage, babies are too young to develop enough effective antibodies against RSV. By giving them passive immunization, we provide effective antibodies that act like a temporary bodyguard, shielding them from RSV while their immune system continues to develop. ^15,24-25

Infants born prematurely (before 37 weeks of pregnancy) are at higher risk of serious RSV infection than those born at term (37 weeks of pregnancy or more).²⁶

If you are concerned, speak to your healthcare provider.

Even healthy, full-term babies are at risk of RSV infection.¹

In fact, 9 out of 10 children will be infected with RSV by the age of 2.¹¹ While most RSV cases are mild, symptoms can worsen rapidly within just a few days.⁶

Studies show that around 40% of babies infected with RSV may develop bronchiolitis or pneumonia.⁵ Surprisingly, over 70% of babies hospitalized due to RSV are healthy and born full-term.¹² This highlights that serious complications can occur even in babies without underlying health conditions.

Although babies born prematurely or with chronic illnesses are considered high-risk, it’s impossible to predict which healthy infants might require hospitalization.²⁷ That’s why RSV protection is important for all babies including those born full-term and healthy.

Yes, babies who have had RSV once are not immune for life. They can be re-infected, and studies show that the risk of developing serious respiratory illness increases with subsequent infections.¹⁵

There are currently no specific treatments for RSV, and it is generally managed with supportive care and symptom relief.^1,3,31 Most cases are mild¹ and recover within a week or two.³¹ But in severe cases, treatment may include oxygen, feeding support, and hydration.^1,32

Most RSV infections resolve on their own within one to two weeks. However, RSV can cause serious illness in some infants.³¹ If your child shows signs of difficulty breathing, poor fluid intake, or severe symptoms, contact your pediatrician or family doctor immediately.

Babies are unable to regulate their body temperature in the same way adults can. It is very important for them to maintain a stable body temperature, particularly if they are born premature or are sick.³³

Babies with RSV can experience high temperatures or fever.³⁴ Consult your pediatrician or family doctor for more guidance.