Texas's RSV Season Subsides

According to recent data published by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) and the U.S. CDC, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) trend data indicates the 2023-2024 season has begun to end.

RSV activity typically begins to increase in Texas in September or October and peaks in December or January. 

As of December 14, 2023, DSHS reported the number (500) and percentage (21.56%) of Antigen Tests Positive for RSV had decreased from a peak during the middle of November 2023.

However, there is currently insufficient data to properly present trends for the Upper Rio Grande/El Paso region.

RSV can spread when a person with the virus coughs or sneezes into the air. School-aged children who are infected with RSV and have a mild upper respiratory tract infection often introduce RSV into the home, says DSHS.

For infants and young children, a one-time injectable monoclonal antibody called Beyfortus™ (Nirsevimab-alip) is available to prevent severe RSV illness. Beyfortus cannot prevent infection with RSV or help cure or treat children already suffering from serious RSV disease.

For older adults, there are two approved RSV vaccines available in 2023. About 17% of qualifying adults have received an RSV vaccine this year.