Rates of RSV cases are rising in the Southeastern U.S. RSV cases typically appear in the fall and peak in the winter, but seasonal trends have been unpredictable since 2020.  It is too soon to know if the pre-2020 patterns will return.  A new RSV immunization for infants, and vaccine for older adults and pregnant people, is now available and could help protect against hospitalizations from RSV this year.

RSV is a respiratory virus that causes cold-like symptoms. The virus is typically mild but can be severe in infants and older adults.

Historically, the seasonal patterns of when RSV first appears and peaks in the US have been consistent. The virus normally started in the Southeastern U.S. in the fall, and then peaked during the winter. This pattern changed in 2020 during COVID-19. In 2022, RSV started in the summer and peaked in October and November.

This year's pattern of RSV matches historical patterns so far, but it is too early to tell if the season will remain typical.

This year, new tools can help protect infants and older adults against RSV. These include a monoclonal antibody for infants and vaccines for older adults and pregnant people in their third trimester.

Consistent hand washing, following vaccine recommendations, and staying home if you feel sick can help curb the spread of RSV, flu, and COVID-19.

It is still too early to know for sure if the RSV seasonal patterns will return to pre-COVID patterns this year. RSV patterns have historically mirrored the patterns and timing of the flu.

In 2022 the flu season came early, peaking in November instead of January. While some scientists speculate that the flu season could begin early this year as well it is still too early to know for sure. It is recommended that Americans get the flu vaccine before the end of October.