FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: March 18 2026

Contact:
Jon Ebelt, Communications Director,
DPHHS, (406) 444-0936, (406) 461-3757
jebelt@mt.gov

DPHHS Recommends Extending Pediatric RSV Immunization Through April

HELENA, MT — The Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) is advising health care providers to continue offering preventive immunizations against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) for infants and young children through April 30, 2026.

In accordance with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations, these steps are being taken to address disease trends currently observed in Montana and across the country.

While this common respiratory virus often causes mild, cold-like symptoms, it remains the leading cause of infant hospitalization in the United States.

Typically administered between October and March, this immunization protects infants and young children from severe illness, though the schedule may be adjusted based on how RSV is spreading.

This year, the illness began circulating later than usual in Montana and across the country. Because infection rates continue to rise, DPHHS has determined that an additional month is necessary to protect infants from severe complications.

“Montana's RSV activity is still increasing,” DPHHS State Medical Officer Dr. Doug Harrington said. “Extending access to RSV preventive antibodies through April gives families and providers more time to get eligible infants covered during this heightened period of activity. We encourage parents to talk with their child’s provider as soon as possible.”

Who Should Receive RSV Immunization?

DPHHS encourages providers to continue offering RSV immunization through April 30 for the following groups: ****

Infants younger than 8 months old who have not yet been immunized this season and meet one of these criteria:

• Their mother did not receive the RSV vaccine during pregnancy.
• The mother’s vaccination status is unknown.
• The infant was born within 14 days of the mother’s vaccination. These infants should ideally receive the dose in the hospital after birth or within their first week of life, though it can be administered during any health care visit.

The second group is children ages 8-19 months who are in their second RSV season and are at increased risk for severe disease. This includes:

• Children born prematurely with chronic lung disease.
• Children with weakened immune systems.
• Those with certain cystic fibrosis conditions.
• American Indian or Alaska Native children. About RSV Prevention

Because the virus can be dangerous for the very young, DPHHS urges caregivers to consult with a pediatrician to determine if their child is eligible for protection.

For more information on infant health and respiratory prevention, visit the CDC's official resource page.