Same Virus. Same Country. Different Access: Why RSV Protection Shouldn't Depend on Your Postal Code
RSV season is approaching, and for families of babies born prematurely, protecting their little ones from respiratory illness is especially important. But across Canada, not every baby has the same access to protection.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that typically circulates from November through April. While it often causes cold-like symptoms, RSV can lead to serious illness, including bronchiolitis and pneumonia, particularly in young infants.
Babies born prematurely are especially vulnerable because their lungs and immune systems are still developing.
The good news is that effective options are now available to help protect infants against severe RSV illness. The challenge? Access to these protections isn't consistent across Canada.
One Country, Different Rules
In Canada, RSV immunization programs are determined by individual provinces and territories. This means eligibility, publicly funded options and the ages of infants covered can differ depending on where a family lives.
Some jurisdictions offer protection to all infants during their first RSV season, while others have more restrictive eligibility criteria.
For families, these differences can create confusion and uncertainty at a time when clear information and timely protection matter most.
A baby's postal code shouldn't determine their protection from RSV.
Advocating for Equitable Protection
We’ve developed a comprehensive, evidence-based policy brief calling for a more consistent and equitable approach to RSV prevention across the country.
Drawing on clinical research and the lived experiences of families, the brief highlights gaps in access and outlines recommendations to help ensure infants receive appropriate protection.
CPBF is advocating for RSV prevention programs that are:
Publicly funded, removing financial barriers for families.
Consistent across Canada, regardless of province, territory or geographic location.
Available to all infants during their first RSV season.
Available to eligible high-risk children during their second RSV season.
These recommendations reflect a simple principle: every infant deserves access to effective protection, regardless of where they live or their family's circumstances.
What Parents Can Do This RSV Season
If you're expecting a baby, have a newborn or are caring for a child born prematurely, now is a good time to ask your healthcare provider about RSV protection.
Options may include long-acting monoclonal antibodies given directly to infants or maternal RSV vaccination during pregnancy. Availability and eligibility vary by jurisdiction.
Other everyday precautions can also help reduce the spread of respiratory viruses, including frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with people who are sick and keeping frequently touched surfaces clean.
If your baby develops breathing difficulties, has trouble feeding or shows signs of dehydration, seek medical attention promptly.
Knowledge Is Protection
Families deserve clear, accessible information to help them make informed decisions about their children's health.
Our RSV education resources include parent handbooks, multilingual information sheets and educational materials for healthcare professionals.
We're also continuing to advocate for policies that make RSV prevention more accessible to families across Canada.
Because where a baby is born should never determine their opportunity to be protected.
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