State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald has highlighted the importance of immunizing infants against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), emphasizing two available preventive options. According to Dr. McDonald, “Nirsevimab is a one-time injection that protects your baby throughout the entire RSV season. Another option is for pregnant persons to receive the maternal vaccine before giving birth. While there is no specific medicine to treat RSV, a leading cause of infant hospitalizations, we are fortunate to have two safe and effective options to help prevent severe RSV illness in babies.”
He cited national data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which indicate that during the first RSV season with widespread access to both the maternal vaccine and nirsevimab, hospitalization rates among infants due to RSV dropped by as much as 43 percent compared to previous years. Dr. McDonald stated, “These preventive tools are helping protect our youngest New Yorkers during a time when they are most vulnerable.”
In 2024, Dr. McDonald issued a statewide standing order permitting pharmacists in New York State to administer the RSV vaccine. This measure was intended to increase vaccine accessibility for eligible groups, including adults aged 75 and older, individuals between 60 and 75 with underlying medical conditions, and pregnant people.
Dr. McDonald also encouraged general health practices to limit the spread of RSV. He said, “No one wants their baby to be sick. Everyone can help reduce the spread of RSV by covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing, washing your hands and staying home from school or work when sick.”
