The American Academy of Pediatrics has updated its policy statement on preventing RSV lower respiratory tract infection for the 2026–27 season. It was published in Pediatrics on 2 September 2026, alongside a technical report.
The AAP recommends RSV immunisation for all infants under 8 months who are born during, or entering, their first RSV season, unless the infant has documented protection from maternal vaccination. It also recommends immunisation for children aged 8 to 19 months at high risk of severe RSV entering their second season. The main change is that the evidence review supports expanding the high-risk criteria for that second-season group; the details are in the technical report.
In India, access is the limiting factor. Long-acting monoclonal antibodies such as nirsevimab are not widely available, their CDSCO status should be checked, and cost is high. Maternal vaccination also has limited reach. The principle still applies: plan RSV protection by season and risk, and do not give infant immunisation on top of documented maternal protection without a reason.
- Check whether the mother received RSV vaccination at least 14 days before delivery
- Offer infant immunisation in the first season if the mother was not vaccinated, where available
- Identify high-risk children aged 8 to 19 months before their second season
- Read the technical report for the expanded high-risk criteria
- Confirm local regulatory status and availability before advising families
Why it matters
More toddlers entering their second RSV season now qualify for protection under AAP criteria.
Don't overread it
This is a US policy statement; availability and regulatory status of RSV immunisation products in India differ.
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