The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) has extended the availability of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) immunizations for infants through April 30 as disease activity remains elevated across the state. RSV immunizations are typically available between October and March. This extension gives parents and caregivers additional time to protect babies who have not yet received RSV protection.
“Our hope is that by extending the administration period for RSV immunizations, we can continue to keep babies out of the hospital while disease activity is still high,” said Dr. Tao Sheng Kwan-Gett, State Health Officer, DOH. “If you have an infant younger than 8 months or a higher-risk toddler between 8 and 19 months old who hasn’t gotten immunized against RSV this season, talk to your child’s health care provider as soon as you can about RSV protection.”
RSV is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. However, it can cause severe illness leading to hospitalization and even death in some groups of people, including infants and older adults. RSV is the leading cause of infant hospitalization in the United States.
Why this year is different
In Washington, the 2025–26 RSV season started later than normal, with increased activity beginning in December, which is more than a month later than previous seasons. RSV hospitalization rates among infants under 1 year have been the highest of any age group this season, peaking at approximately 26 per 100,000 in January, with rates still elevated as of late February.
The delayed start to the Washington RSV season and continued elevated activity into late winter are consistent with patterns seen nationally.
Protecting against RSV
Immunization against RSV for infants is provided through monoclonal antibody products, like nirsevimab (Beyfortus) and
All children younger than 8 months should receive nirsevimab during their first RSV season. Children between 8 and 19 months of age who are at higher risk due to medical conditions or weakened immune systems can get nirsevimab in their second RSV season. Children in this age group who are American Indian or Alaska Native are also recommended to get nirsevimab in their second RSV season because they are at higher risk of severe RSV disease.
Monoclonal antibody products can be administered in birthing hospitals prior to discharge and in provider offices. Parents and caregivers should talk with their child’s health care provider about whether RSV protection is recommended for their child.
Learn more about RSV in infants and children on DOH’s website.
