Date: November 25, 2024
As the weather turns colder, respiratory illnesses such as the flu, colds and respiratory syncytial virus, also known as RSV, become more common.
RSV is a viral disease that primarily affects children and seniors but can occur in people of all ages. RSV spreads easily, can last for many days and can cause serious complications like pneumonia.
These conditions are especially dangerous for infants and can cause severe illness and hospitalization.
The Chickasaw Nation Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the RSV antibody in all infants up to 8 months of age and First American children through 19 months. The RSV vaccine is recommended for adults ages 60 and older. One injection protects for five months. The RSV antibody injection is a passive immunization, which means it protects against disease without activating the immune system.
For additional information, please visit ChickasawNationHealth.net or call (580) 272-1037.