'A really serious respiratory virus:' What you need to know about RSV and new vaccines

Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, season is just a few months away, but new vaccine options have already arrived for Ontario residents who may be vulnerable to the winter bug.

Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, season is just a few months away, but new vaccine options have already arrived for Ontario residents who may be vulnerable to the winter bug.

Older adults and newborn babies are among those most at risk of developing serious complications due to the illness, which can lead to hospitalization and death.

Ontario is launching its vaccine program for the fall to offer protection for certain vulnerable groups through its provincial health coverage plan.

Tiffany Fitzpatrick, a scientist with Public Health Ontario and a University of Toronto assistant professor, spoke to CTV News Toronto about what people in Ontario need to know ahead of this year’s RSV season.

RSV is a common contagious virus, which can lead to other serious illnesses, including bronchiolitis, lung infection and pneumonia.

The virus can be passed from one person to another through respiratory droplets. RSV usually appears as a mild illness with cold-like symptoms, but for some groups it can lead to severe complications, according to Fitzpatrick.

The illness is most dangerous to children younger than two years of age, older adults, individuals with heart or respiratory conditions, and immunocompromised individuals.