The Ontario government is expanding the availability of the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccines to more infants, high-risk children, and pregnant women.
While RSV infection is typically mild, the risk of severe outcomes is higher for those under two. The virus is connected to chronic lung disease, congenital heart disease, compromised immune systems, and neuromuscular disorders.
"This new preventative therapy to prevent RSV infection in kids is an absolute game-changer," said Ontario Health Chief Medical Executive Doctor Chris Simpson. "It has the promise to dramatically reduce hospitalizations during the viral surge season."
Starting this fall, families with babies and high-risk children up to 24 months can get the new RSV shot, Beyfortus, through the publicly-funded program. Pregnant women can get the Abrysvo immunization to protect infants from birth to six months.
Pregnant women should talk to their doctor about using Abrysvo before receiving their immunization.
"We all need to take the simple and effective steps to protect the most vulnerable people in our communities and our health care system," said Ontario Chief Medical Officer of Health Doctor Kieran Moore. "RSV is a highly contagious virus that causes infections of the respiratory tract, especially in the very young and older members of our communities."
In the coming weeks, the Ontario government plans to release more information on how people can access vaccinations.