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Protecting Your Child from Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

During the fall and winter seasons, the risks of contracting Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) are highest.

RSV is a major cause of respiratory illness that affects the airway and lungs, especially in babies and young children. This factsheet from the Provincial Council for Maternal and Child Health has information about RSV and how to protect yourself and your family, especially infants, against this virus.

Topics included on this sheet are:

• What is RSV?
• What are the symptoms of RSV?
• What can I do to protect my infant against RSV?
• Information about the vaccine for pregnant parents.
• Information about the infant preventive medication.
• Other ways to keep your child and family safe from RSV

You can find more information on the Ontario Ministry of Health’s RSV webpage.

For More Information

• Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) - An English factsheet from the Ministry of Health.
• What vaccinations does my child need? - All children who attend school or licensed child care in Ontario must receive certain vaccinations, which are free of charge to residents of Ontario.
• Can I get a flu shot (vaccine)? - Ontario has a universal flu immunization program. This means that people who live, work or attend school in Ontario can choose to get the flu shot (vaccine) for free.
• The Flu - Information about Ontario’s flu vaccination program
• COVID-19 - Information about Ontario’s COVID-19 vaccination progr.am.