Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Vaccination
The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the leading cause of respiratory infections in young children. These infections can cause serious complications, like bronchiolitis or pneumonia, especially in babies, but also in vulnerable individuals and the elderly.
The RSV infection is seasonal. It usually appears in the fall and typically circulates until the spring.
Immunization is the best way to protect against the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections and their complications. It involves administering a preventive treatment or a vaccine to help the body defend itself against RSV-related illnesses.
Babies
Immunization against the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in babies involves administering a preventive treatment to eligible children. This preventive treatment is offered in hospitals and birthing centres to babies born during RSV season.
For eligible babies who did not receive the vaccine at birth, you can book an appointment on Clic Santé, during RSV season. You can also book an appointment at 1-888-862-3487.
Consult the information sheet on RSV in babies Immunization, the best protection - Immunization against respiratory syncytial virus (RVS) infections for babies.
Adults
Immunization against infections caused by the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in adults involves administering a vaccine.
The VRS vaccine is free of charge for:
- people aged 60 and older who live in a residential and long-term care centre (CHSLD) or an intermediate resource – senior autonomy support program (IR-SASP);
- certain people aged 75 and older who live in a private seniors’ residence (PSR).
Although not free of charge, the vaccine is authorized for:
- pregnant women between the 32nd and 36th week of pregnancy to protect their newborn baby;
- people aged 60 and older.
For more information, talk to a health professional or consult the Québec.ca page: respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections.