What is RSV and why should I care about it?

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus affecting Canadians' health. It infects the airways and lungs, causing cold-like symptoms such as runny nose and coughing, usually lasting one to two weeks. Vulnerable groups include children under two, older adults, those with heart or lung conditions, and immunocompromised individuals. Adults over 65 face more severe complications, including hospitalization and sometimes needing intensive care.

RSV is highly contagious, more so than seasonal flu, and lacks specific treatments beyond supportive care. While flu causes more hospitalizations in older adults, RSV can be just as deadly. However, RSV hospitalizations in adults, especially older adults, are often underreported due to testing limitations and inadequate surveillance systems.

Preventing RSV includes using monoclonal antibodies for high-risk infants and developing vaccines for all age groups. Three vaccines for older adults show promise in reducing severe RSV infections. Despite progress, more efforts are needed to improve vaccination rates, educate the public and healthcare providers, and enhance surveillance and reporting systems.

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) proposes ten recommendations for policymakers, healthcare providers, and organizations to support RSV vaccination efforts and reduce its impact. They have recommended 10 ideas to ensure the public is protected.  Let’s look at each one to see if they make sense.

This includes educating seniors and their loved ones about the importance of hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and covering coughs and sneezes. For example, placing hand sanitizers in common areas and encouraging their use can help reduce the spread of RSV.

Monitor and track RSV cases to better understand the virus and its impact on different populations. For example, healthcare providers can keep accurate records of RSV cases and share this data with local and national health organizations, which should be available to the public.

Support ongoing research and development of RSV vaccines to ensure effective vaccines are available for all age groups. For example, family members can donate to organizations focused on RSV research or participate in clinical trials.

Encourage seniors to stay current with recommended vaccinations, including RSV vaccines when they become available. For example, healthcare providers can use reminder systems to notify patients when it's time for their vaccinations or if you are not sure, be proactive and check with your provider.

Ensure that vaccination programs target older adults, who are at higher risk for severe RSV infections. For example, healthcare providers can proactively reach out to seniors to schedule vaccination appointments and we can choose to work with rather than ignore our providers.

Make RSV vaccinations affordable by advocating for insurance coverage and public funding. For example, seniors can contact their local representatives to express the importance of RSV vaccine coverage.

Adhere to established vaccination guidelines to ensure safe and effective administration of RSV vaccines. For example, healthcare providers can participate in continuing education courses to stay current on vaccination best practices.

Provide resources and training for healthcare providers to ensure they are knowledgeable about RSV and its prevention. For example, organizations can offer webinars or workshops on RSV for healthcare professionals.

Standardize vaccination procedures: Implement consistent vaccination procedures across healthcare settings to ensure safety and efficiency. For example, healthcare facilities can develop standardized vaccination checklists and protocols.

Track and analyze RSV vaccination rates to identify gaps and areas for improvement. For example, public health departments can use immunization information systems to monitor vaccination coverage.