What is RSV?
RSV is a common virus that affects the lungs and airways. It usually causes cold-like symptoms, but it can be more serious for:

• Babies and young children
•  Older adults 

In Canada, RSV season usually runs from November to April.

RSV Vaccine for Older Adults (2025/2026 Season)

• Free for everyone aged 75+
• Free for adults 60–74 who are:
  • Living in long-term care, retirement homes, or similar settings
  • Staying in hospital for long-term care (including complex care or transitional programs)
  • On dialysis (hemodialysis or peritoneal)
  • Living with glomerulonephritis (GN) and have a weakened immune system
  • Organ or stem cell transplant recipients
  • Experiencing homelessness
  • First Nations, Inuit, or Métis

If you already had the RSV vaccine, you don’t need another dose right now.

How to get it:

• Ask your health care provider.
• If you don’t have one, you can book through your local public health unit online.

Not eligible for free coverage?

• You can still get the RSV vaccine with a prescription from your doctor or nurse practitioner.  Some private insurance may cover the cost.

For more details, visit Ontario’s RSV vaccine information page

RSV Protection for Babies & Young Children (2025/2026 Season)

Beyfortus® (RSV antibody) is available for:

• All babies born on or after April 1, 2025, who are less than 8 months old during RSV season.
• High-risk children under 2 years old, including those with:
  • Chronic lung disease (like bronchopulmonary dysplasia)
  • Serious heart disease (requiring surgery, medication, or with pulmonary hypertension)
  • Severe immune system problems
  • Down syndrome/Trisomy 21
  • Cystic fibrosis with repeated lung infections or poor growth
  • Neuromuscular conditions or airway problems that make it hard to clear mucus

How to get it:

• Starting October 1, 2025, hospitals will offer Beyfortus® to newborns. 
• Talk to your health care provider.  If you don’t have one, you can book through your local public health unit online
  
   

RSV Vaccine for Pregnant People

Abrysvo™ is available for pregnant people (given at 32–36 weeks if delivery will be during RSV season).  However, Beyfortus for newborns is preferred, as it offers stronger protection.

How to get it: 

• Pregnant individuals should speak with their prenatal care provider.

For more details, visit Ontario’s RSV vaccine information page.

Page last updated: October 6, 2025