It’s not too late to protect your baby from RSV
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- 2 min read
RSV activity is high in Kitsap County
KITSAP COUNTY, WA – Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity is still high in Kitsap County and across the United States.
The Washington State Department of Health has extended RSV vaccine availability through April 30 to give parents and caregivers extra time to protect their babies from RSV.
"Even with springtime around the corner, RSV is still a concern, especially for our littlest community members,” said Kitsap Public Health Officer Dr. Herbie Duber. "If you have an infant or higher-risk toddler who hasn’t been vaccinated against RSV, talk to your healthcare provider as soon as you can."
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. RSV is the leading cause of infant hospitalization in the United States.
Why this year is different
Nationally, 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. In Washington, RSV hospitalization rates among infants under 1 year have been the highest of any age group this season.
Protecting against RSV
Vaccines help protect infants and young children from RSV by providing antibody protection that lasts for at least five months.
All children younger than 8 months should receive the RSV vaccine during their first RSV season. Children between 8 and 19 months of age who are at higher risk can get a second dose of the RSV vaccine in their second RSV season.
Where to get vaccinated
Call your child’s healthcare provider to schedule a vaccine appointment or contact Kitsap Public Health District at 360-728-2007 for assistance.
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