DHS encourages pregnant Wisconsinites to get RSV vaccine

With cases of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) rising across Wisconsin, the Department of Health Services (DHS) is urging pregnant Wisconsinites to get the vaccine to protect their baby from the virus. As of Jan. 10 there have been 1,402 people in Wisconsin hospitalized with RSV this season, according to an Oneida County Health Department press release, and  580 of those are children under age two.

The RSV vaccine Abrysvo can be given to people who are between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy and provides protection for newborns until they are six months old. The vaccine was approved for use in 2023 and is safe and effective, the release notes. People who are pregnant should ask their health care provider if they can get the vaccine.

“This RSV vaccine provides protection to the infant for the first six months after they are born,” said DHS Respiratory Disease Epidemiologist Tom Haupt. “That provides the baby protection at a time when they could be vulnerable to serious illness.”

A different option to protect infants is a monoclonal antibody shot (nirsevimab). Children under eight months of age can receive nirsevimab, but it is important to know that nirsevimab is currently in limited supply. This is why it is especially important for people who are pregnant to get the RSV vaccine, which is readily available, to ensure their infants are protected, the release states.

The RSV vaccine is also available to all adults aged 60 and older. There are two RSV vaccines available for this age group: Arexvy and Abrysvo. Both vaccines are safe and effective. Anyone wishing to get an RSV vaccine should reach out to their provider to discuss their options. Additionally, flu and COVID vaccines are available to help protect against respiratory illnesses. Besides vaccines, there are steps people can all take to help stop the spread of germs and viruses:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds.

• Avoid touching your nose, eyes, and mouth.

• Stay home if you are sick and keep your child home when they are sick.

• Avoid being around others who are sick or have respiratory illness symptoms.

• Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze and encourage children to do the same.

• Mask in public places.