SAN ANTONIO — The RSV virus is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms.
But getting the RSV vaccine can save lives. RSV has a season that runs from September to January and affects the respiratory system, especially when it comes to young children.
"When we are born, we have very small airways. So these virus can affect those tiny airways. And with less space, then less inflammation can affect those airways," said Gabriel Medrano is an OBGYN for both University Health and UT Health San Antonio. He says there is now an RSV vaccine for pregnant patients. "We can now offer this vaccine to pregnant patients from 32 weeks of pregnancy to 36 weeks of pregnancy."
The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases says in the U.S. when it comes to kids under five years old, RSV leads to 2.1 million outpatient visits, up to 80,000 hospitalizations, and up to an estimated 500 deaths. That's why the vaccine, that is given to the expected mother, is very important.
"The immune system of the mom will make the the ingredients to pass the immunity to the baby," Medrano said. "It is so it is safe. And the side effects of the vaccine will be very similar to other vaccinations, pain on the injection site, a little bit of muscular pain, soreness."
Medrano says most healthy people are able to get rid of the illness on their own.
"Infants or the elderly with not so much as a strong immune defenses that can get complications leading to hospitalizations and death in rare cases," Medrano said.
Medrano also told us not only should you get the RSV vaccine to protect your child, but also to protect family members whose immune systems may be compromised.
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