RSV on the Rise: What New Jersey Residents Need to Know Now
A contagious respiratory illness, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), is currently spreading across the country, with New Jersey experiencing a notable increase in cases. While typically mild, RSV can pose serious health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Understanding the Current Situation in New Jersey
Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates elevated RSV levels in many areas, including the Garden State. Emergency room visits related to RSV have been climbing since early October, with more than half of New Jersey counties currently reporting “high” or “very high” levels of activity. As of January 31st, RSV contributed to 304 hospitalizations statewide.
The virus accounts for 0.7% of all emergency department visits in New Jersey, slightly higher than the national average of 0.5%. Hospitalizations are disproportionately affecting young children under 4 and adults aged 65 and older.
Who is Most at Risk?
While most people experience RSV as a common cold, certain groups are at higher risk of severe illness. These include:
- Infants, especially those under 6 months vintage
- Premature infants
- Young children with chronic lung or heart conditions
- Individuals with weakened immune systems
- Older adults, particularly those with heart or lung disease
The CDC estimates that two to three out of every 100 infants under 6 months are hospitalized with RSV annually. Tragically, between 100 and 300 children die from RSV each year in the United States.
New Protective Measures: Vaccines and Antibodies
Fortunately, new tools are available to help protect against severe RSV disease. The CDC now recommends RSV vaccines for pregnant women and an antibody treatment for infants. These options offer a proactive approach to safeguarding the most vulnerable.
For infants, monoclonal antibodies – clesrovimab and nirsevimab – are available to prevent severe RSV. These are recommended for infants younger than 8 months born during or entering their first RSV season. The CDC notes that most infants will not need both a vaccine and the antibody.
Vaccines are also recommended for adults aged 60 and older, with one dose providing protection for at least two years. As of December 2025, vaccination coverage among adults 75 and older was 43.4%, and 30.6% for those aged 50-74 with increased risk factors.
Looking Ahead: Potential Future Trends
The introduction of RSV vaccines and antibodies marks a significant turning point in the fight against this common virus. We can anticipate several potential trends in the coming years:
- Decreased Hospitalization Rates: Widespread vaccination and antibody utilize are expected to significantly reduce the number of RSV-related hospitalizations, particularly among infants and older adults.
- Shifting RSV Season: The impact of preventative measures on the typical fall/winter RSV season remains to be seen. It’s possible that the season could be less pronounced or shift in timing.
- Continued Surveillance: Ongoing monitoring of RSV activity through systems like the CDC’s Respiratory Virus Activity Levels and New Jersey’s weekly Respiratory Illness Surveillance Report will be crucial for tracking the effectiveness of interventions and identifying emerging trends.
- Increased Vaccination Rates: As awareness grows and access improves, vaccination rates are likely to increase, further bolstering community immunity.
FAQ About RSV
What are the symptoms of RSV? Common symptoms include a runny nose, decrease in appetite, coughing, sneezing, fever, and wheezing.
Is RSV serious? For most people, RSV causes mild, cold-like symptoms. However, it can be severe for infants, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.
How can I protect my baby from RSV? The CDC recommends a vaccine for pregnant women or an antibody given to the baby.
Where can I find more information about RSV? Visit the CDC website (https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/data/activity-levels.html) or the New Jersey Department of Health website (https://www.nj.gov/health/respiratory-viruses/rsv/).
Pro Tip: Frequent handwashing and covering coughs and sneezes can help prevent the spread of RSV.
Stay informed and take proactive steps to protect yourself and your loved ones from RSV this season. For the latest updates and guidance, consult with your healthcare provider and refer to official sources like the CDC and the New Jersey Department of Health.
