Respiratory illnesses do not take a break just because winter is winding down. In New York State, respiratory syncytial virus, commonly known as RSV, continues to circulate at steady levels, with hospitalizations now exceeding those from influenza and COVID-19 combined. The New York State Department of Health is encouraging eligible residents to get vaccinated against RSV and other respiratory viruses while protection is still within reach.

At Crestwood General, we believe that clear, actionable health information helps people protect themselves and their families. This guide explains what RSV is, who should get vaccinated, and how to access immunizations near you.

What Is RSV and Why Does It Matter?

Respiratory syncytial virus is a common virus that causes infections of the lungs and respiratory tract. While most healthy adults experience mild, cold-like symptoms, RSV can lead to severe illness in vulnerable groups, including:

Infants and young children, especially those born prematurely or with underlying health conditions
Adults age 75 and older
Adults age 50 and older with chronic conditions such as heart, lung, kidney, or liver disease

RSV is a leading cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in young children and can trigger serious complications in older adults. According to recent surveillance data, there were 5,785 reported RSV cases and 819 hospitalizations for the week ending February 14, 2026. This marks the ninth consecutive week that RSV cases have held steady or increased.

"Respiratory syncytial virus vaccines are a recent development that provides the strongest protection we have against RSV," said State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald. "Young children and older adults are particularly susceptible to RSV and its complications, which often lead to hospitalization. Simple vaccination can help prevent this severe, sometimes life-threatening illness."

For more information on RSV and respiratory virus prevention, visit the CDC RSV Resources page.

Who Should Get the RSV Vaccine?

RSV immunization recommendations vary by age and health status. Understanding who qualifies can help you make an informed decision.

For Infants and Young Children

Newborns, infants up to 8 months of age, and children under 2 with certain risk factors can receive monoclonal antibody immunization, which provides immediate protection against RSV. This is especially important for:

Babies born during RSV season (typically fall through early spring) whose birth parent did not receive the RSV vaccine during pregnancy
Infants with chronic lung disease, congenital heart disease, or weakened immune systems

Monoclonal antibodies are not vaccines in the traditional sense; they provide ready-made antibodies that help the body fight RSV right away.

For Older Adults

Adults age 75 and older should receive an RSV vaccine. Adults age 50 to 74 with certain chronic health conditions should also consider vaccination. Three FDA-approved RSV vaccines are available for this age group.

If you are unsure whether your health conditions place you at higher risk, talk with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance. Adults living in long-term care facilities may also benefit from RSV immunization.

For Pregnant Individuals

Between September and January, pregnant people between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy can receive an RSV vaccine. This helps protect newborns during their first months of life, when they are most vulnerable to severe RSV disease.

Learn more about maternal and infant immunization from the CDC Vaccines for Pregnant People page.

RSV Is Not the Only Virus Circulating

While RSV remains a concern, influenza and COVID-19 are also active in New York State. For the week ending February 14:

7,553 flu cases were reported, a 21 percent increase from the previous week, with 314 hospitalizations
4,029 COVID-19 cases were reported, a 2 percent increase, with 390 hospitalizations

Flu and COVID-19 can be especially severe for adults age 65 and older, people with chronic medical conditions, young children, and pregnant individuals. Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent serious complications from these viruses.

It is not too late to get vaccinated. Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are still available and recommended for eligible individuals.

How to Access Vaccines

RSV, flu, and COVID-19 immunizations are widely available throughout New York State at:

Local pharmacies
Healthcare provider offices
County and city health departments

Before visiting, call ahead to confirm vaccine availability and whether an appointment is needed.

Cost and Coverage

Under the Affordable Care Act, most health insurance plans cover recommended vaccines, including flu, RSV, and COVID-19, without co-pays or out-of-pocket costs.

If you are uninsured or your insurance does not cover vaccines, you may still receive immunizations at no cost through:

The Vaccines for Children Program for eligible minors
The Vaccines for Adults Program for qualifying adults

Participating sites include community health centers, local health departments, and federally qualified health centers. Find a location near you through the New York State Department of Health Immunization Services page.

Simple Steps to Reduce Respiratory Virus Spread

Vaccines are powerful tools, but everyday prevention habits also make a difference. To help stop the spread of RSV, flu, and COVID-19:

Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap is not available
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
Stay away from people who are sick
Stay home when you are feeling unwell to avoid exposing others
Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, then dispose of tissues properly
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, phones, and countertops

These practices protect not only you but also those around you, especially infants, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.

For additional prevention tips, visit the CDC Respiratory Virus Guidance page.

Monitoring Respiratory Virus Activity

Staying informed about local virus trends helps you make timely decisions about vaccination and prevention. The New York State Department of Health publishes weekly respiratory surveillance reports that track RSV, flu, and COVID-19 activity across the state.

You can access these reports and more detailed influenza data through:

These resources provide up-to-date information on case counts, hospitalizations, and geographic trends to help you assess risk in your community.

Resources for Patients and Families

If you have questions about RSV vaccination or respiratory virus prevention:

Talk to your primary care provider or pediatrician
Contact your local health department for vaccine locations and eligibility guidance
Visit the CDC RSV Prevention page for science-based information
Explore Crestwood General for secure medical documentation services related to illness, work absence, or travel health requirements

The Bottom Line

RSV is a serious but preventable illness. Vaccination offers the strongest protection available, especially for infants, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions. With RSV hospitalizations currently exceeding those from flu and COVID-19 combined, timely immunization matters more than ever.

Key takeaways:
- RSV cases remain steady in New York, with hospitalizations outpacing flu and COVID-19
- Vaccines and monoclonal antibodies are available for infants, older adults, and pregnant individuals
- Flu and COVID-19 are also circulating; it is not too late to get vaccinated
- Most insurance plans cover recommended vaccines at no cost; free options exist for the uninsured
- Simple hygiene practices help reduce the spread of all respiratory viruses

Protecting your health is a year-round commitment. By staying informed, getting recommended vaccines, and practicing everyday prevention, you can reduce your risk and help keep your community safe.

For more practical health guides, secure medical documentation services, or wellness resources, visit Crestwood General. Because when people have access to clear, reliable health information, they can make choices that protect their well-being and the health of those they care about.