Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Young children and older adults, especially those with certain underlying health conditions, are at higher risk for severe illness from RSV. Prophylaxis is available for children who qualify. For more information, contact your health care provider.

In weeks 37-38, RSV activity in children <5 years increased. Levels were above those seen at this time in past years.

Currently, four of Florida’s five regions are in RSV season.

Florida’s RSV season is longer than the rest of the nation and has distinct regional patterns. The Florida Department of Health established regional RSV seasons based on activity thresholds provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The determination of unique seasonal and geographic trends of RSV activity in Florida has important implications for prescribing patterns for initiating prophylaxis to children at high risk for complications from RSV infection. The American Academy of Pediatrics currently recommends pre-approval for prophylactic treatment be made based on state surveillance data.

In weeks 37-38, the percent of emergency department visits for RSV among children <5 years increased. RSV activity in children <5 years was notably above levels observed at this time in typical years.

In weeks 37-38, the percent of specimens testing positive for RSV, parainfluenza 1–3, human metapneumovirus, and influenza unspecified increased while the percent of specimens testing positive for adenovirus and rhinovirus decreased.

In weeks 37-38, no new RSV associated outbreaks were reported. Since week 30, 2021, nineteen RSV-associated outbreaks have been reported.

RSV Surveillance

A statewide RSV surveillance system was implemented in Florida to support clinical decision-making for prophylaxis of premature infants.

To learn more about RSV in Florida, please visit FloridaHealth.gov/RSV.