The Marin County Public Health Officer issued a Public Health Advisory on 12/29/23 to recommend RSV vaccination for residents in long-term care facilities (LTCFs).
About RSV
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. However, it can be a serious illness for infants and older adults. In most years, RSV is most common from October through March. Learn more about RSV, how RSV spreads, how to care for someone with symptoms of RSV, and what you can do to prevent RSV.
Surveillance
Marin County public health tracks RSV activity.
Protect Yourself From RSV
Immunization and everyday prevention activities are the best ways to protect yourself and your family from RSV.
Everyday measures can help reduce the spread of RSV and other respiratory illnesses. These include:
- Stay home when sick.
- Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your shirt sleeve, not your hands.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with others, such as kissing, shaking hands, and sharing cups and eating utensils.
- Clean frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs and mobile devices.
RSV Immunization Recommendations
As of 2023, there are new RSV immunizations for certain groups to protect against severe RSV illness. Ask your regular health care provider about the RSV immunization.
- Adults ages 60 and older: Two RSV vaccines (Arexvy by GSK and Abrysvo by Pfizer) have been licensed by FDA and recommended by CDC for adults ages 60 and older, using shared clinical decision-making.
- Pregnant women: One RSV vaccine (Abrysvo by Pfizer) has been licensed and recommended during weeks 32 through 36 of pregnancy to protect infants.
- Infants and some young children: An RSV preventive antibody has been licensed and recommended for infants and some young children.
