ONTARIO--As doctors worry seniors will be the next wave of patients hospitalized with RSV, Health Canada is reviewing a potential vaccine to protect the vulnerable group.
Pediatric hospitals have been treating large numbers of young patients for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in recent weeks. The virus has been circulating at high rates and that puts seniors at risk since their immune systems weaken with age.
"Canadians can help stop the spread of RSV to seniors by wearing masks and not visiting older loved ones while feeling unwell," according to officials with Health Canada.
Health Canada says it's looking at a possible vaccine to protect seniors against RSV as experts warn of a harsher than-usual flu season.
In a recent statement, Health Canada announced it received a submission from GlaxoSmithKline in late October for an RSV vaccine for adults 60 years of age and older.
Meanwhile, Pfizer has also notified federal regulators it plans to submit two RSV vaccines for review, including one targeted at seniors and another for pregnant women.
With files from Al Cresswell, CFNO