Canada approved multiple RSV shots to ward off infections this fall — here’s how to get them – CBC

Provinces taking different approaches, many Canadians may be paying out of pocket

Sep 18, 2024

Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, isn’t always top of mind during the colder months. It’s often overshadowed by flu season, or winter waves of COVID-19.

But the reality is, this viral infection — which usually causes the common cold — can be a major driver of severe illness in vulnerable groups. Older adults and newborn babies are among those most at risk, leading to serious cases of pneumonia, a high number of seasonal hospitalizations, and an estimated 118,000 annual global deaths.

“RSV is a very common infection, but it is the leading cause of respiratory infections and hospitalizations among Canadian infants,” noted Wasem Alsabbagh, a drug effectiveness researcher and an associate professor in the University of Waterloo’s school of pharmacy.

The good news? Canada is among the countries offering a broader slate of protective products to ward off RSV infections this fall and winter.

Read more: https://www.cbc.ca/news/health/rsv-vaccines-fall-1.7325910