• The RSV Season
• Ways to Help Avoid the Spread of RSV

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is easily spread by physical contact. Touching, kissing, and shaking hands with an infected person can spread RSV. It is also spread by sneezing or coughing, and can live up to 7 hours on countertops and for several hours on used tissues. RSV often spreads very quickly in crowded households and daycare centers. Nearly all babies get RSV by the age of 2¹.

A person can be exposed to RSV and pass it to others without knowing it.

Here are some ways that you can help prevent the spread of RSV:

• Wash your hands before touching your baby and ask others to do the same.
• Keep your baby away from crowds, especially young children.
• Keep people with colds away from your baby.
• Whenever possible, limit exposure to crowded conditions such as daycare and group care settings.
• Wash your baby’s toys and bedding often.
• Do not share your child's personal items, such as:
• Pacifiers
• Cups, forks, and spoons
• Toothbrushes
• Towels and washcloths
• Do not smoke near your baby. Do not let others smoke, either. Exposure to tobacco smoke increases the risk of RSV disease.
• If your baby is at high risk for RSV disease, talk with your baby’s healthcare provider about additional protective steps you can take. Learn more about the risk factors.