RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)
RSV is a common respiratory virus that usually causes a mild cold, but can also cause severe disease, especially in infants and older adults. RSV is the most common infection of the lungs and reason for hospitalization in children younger than 1 year of age in the United States. Almost all children get RSV at least once before they are two years old.
RSV immunization is recommended for:
- Infants younger than 8 months
- High-risk infants/toddlers 8 through 19 months
- People who are 32ā36 weeks pregnant
- All adults 75 and older
- Some high-risk adults 60ā74 years old (this includes people with chronic heart or lung disease, certain other chronic medical conditions, and those who are residents of nursing homes or other long-term care facilities)
Learn more about
RSV immunizations.
RSV vaccine is not currently an annual vaccine, meaning if someone has already gotten an RSV vaccine, they do not need to get another one. Talk with your health care provider to see if RSV immunization is right for you or your family members. Also take
everyday preventative measures to limit the spread of RSVā and other respiratory illnesses such as washing hands, covering coughs and sneezes, wearing a mask in crowded indoor places and staying home when sick.
Additional Resources
CDPH Material Co-brand Disclaimer
Local health jurisdictions (LHJs) and community-based organizations (CBOs) may co-brand materials created by CDPH (those in
CDPH Office of Communications Toolkits) by adding their agency logo next to or near the CDPH logo. Be sure there is ample space between the two logos. Materials may not be altered or edited in any other way, including removal or adjustment of the CDPH logo.
Video PSA
RSV Vaccines During Pregnancy (Released December 2023)
California Surgeon General, Dr. Diana Ramos, discusses the benefits of RSV immunization (as well as Tdap, COVID-19 and flu vaccination) during pregnancy. Pregnant people between 32ā36 weeks of pregnancy can receive the RSV vaccine and pass protection on to their baby.
Use the images and suggested messaging below to help educate Californians about the importance of the RSV immunizations for specific populations. Feel free to customize and share via social media platforms, websites, patient portals, emails, and other ways to reach your audiences. We also encourage posting pictures from your own community.