RSV Wave Hits the U.S.

There’s a noticeable increase in cases of Respiratory Syncytial Virus, or RSV, making its way across the country.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that RSV cases are higher in various regions, including New Jersey. This commonplace virus usually leads to mild symptoms, somewhat like a cold, for most folks. But, I think it’s worth noting that for some, especially babies, seniors, and those with weakened immune systems, it can be quite serious. In fact, it’s a leading cause of hospitalization among infants.

Typically, the RSV season kicks off in fall, reaching its peak in winter. Lately, emergency room visits and hospitalizations for RSV in New Jersey have been on the rise since early October. It seems that over half of the counties in New Jersey are experiencing “high” or “very high” levels of RSV-related ER visits.

Interestingly, this highly contagious virus is linked to about 0.5% of all emergency department visits across the U.S., and a bit higher, at 0.7%, in New Jersey, according to the most recent CDC data. As of January 31, the illness has led to 304 hospitalizations statewide. The majority of those hospitalized are children under four and adults who are 65 and older, according to state figures.

Generally speaking, every year, around 2% to 3% of infants under six months are hospitalized due to RSV. While most children will experience only mild symptoms, those who were born prematurely or have specific medical issues may face increased risks.

Each year, it’s estimated that RSV leads to the deaths of about 100 to 300 children, according to the CDC.

To help protect infants from severe RSV complications, the CDC suggests vaccination for pregnant women or administering an antibody to the baby—usually, one isn’t necessary for both. This antibody differs from traditional vaccines in that it introduces monoclonal antibodies to help prevent severe illness in infants and some young kids. Two options are available: clesrovimab and nirsevimab.

These products are advised for infants younger than eight months who are either born during or entering their first RSV season, as per the CDC’s guidelines.

Moreover, public health experts recommend vaccinations for these groups:

• Individuals aged 50 to 74 with chronic heart or lung conditions, other chronic diseases, and those residing in nursing homes or long-term care facilities.
• Everyone aged 75 and older.

Interestingly, just one dose of the RSV vaccine can offer protection for at least two years, according to the CDC. By December 2025, vaccination rates stood at 43.4% for adults aged 75 and over, while those aged 50 to 74 at increased risk were at 30.6%.