RSV and Daycare: Policy, Babies and When to Return

RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) causes cold-like symptoms in most children, but it can be serious for babies, especially in the first six months. For the 2026-27 season, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends RSV protection for all babies under 8 months born during or entering their first RSV season, either through a vaccine during pregnancy or an antibody shot for the baby. Most daycares let children return once they are fever-free for 24 hours, breathing comfortably and eating well.

Here is what parents of babies in group care should know. Updated November 2026 with the AAP's September 2026 RSV policy.

What RSV looks like

RSV season usually runs from fall through spring. Symptoms often start like a cold:

• Runny nose and sneezing
• Cough, which may get worse over a few days
• Fever
• Lower appetite and fussiness
• Wheezing

In young babies, the only signs may be irritability, poor feeding or less activity. Symptoms are often worst on days 3 to 5.

Warning signs: call your doctor or get care right away

• Fast breathing, or working hard to breathe
• The skin pulling in between or under the ribs with each breath
• Flaring nostrils or grunting
• Pauses in breathing
• Blue or gray color around the lips or on the skin
• Feeding much less than usual, or fewer wet diapers
• Unusual sleepiness
• Any fever in a baby younger than 3 months

If your baby is struggling to breathe or turning blue, call 911.

Why RSV matters in daycare

RSV spreads through coughs, sneezes and touching surfaces and then the face. It can live on hard surfaces for hours. Babies and toddlers in group care share toys and hands, so it moves through a classroom quickly.

Most children have had RSV by age 2. According to the CDC, it is a leading cause of hospital stays for babies in the United States.

Protecting your baby: options for 2026-27

Babies need one of these two options for their first RSV season, not both in most cases:

• Maternal RSV vaccine (Abrysvo): given during pregnancy, between 32 and 36 weeks, during the RSV vaccine months, usually September through January. Antibodies pass to the baby before birth. For the baby to count as protected, the vaccine needs to be given at least 14 days before delivery. If you had the RSV vaccine in an earlier pregnancy, the usual advice is not to repeat it, and your new baby gets an antibody shot instead.
• Infant antibody shot: nirsevimab (Beyfortus) or clesrovimab (Enflonsia), given once to babies under 8 months who are not protected by the maternal vaccine. Pediatric groups do not prefer one over the other for the first season. The best time is shortly before RSV season starts, but it can be given any time during the season.
• A second season for some toddlers: children 8 through 19 months at high risk of severe RSV can get nirsevimab before their second season. In September 2026, the AAP expanded the list of health conditions that qualify, so ask your pediatrician if your child has a chronic heart, lung, immune or other condition.

Talk to your pediatrician about which option fits your family, ideally before your baby starts daycare, and ask your insurance or the clinic about coverage. Our article on Illinois daycare immunization requirements covers the vaccines centers require.

When can my child go back to daycare?

Most centers follow a common rule of thumb. Your child can usually return when they:

• Have had no fever for 24 hours without fever medicine
• Are breathing comfortably, without fast or labored breathing
• Are eating and drinking well
• Can take part in the normal day

A lingering cough or runny nose is common for a couple of weeks and does not always mean your child must stay home. Check your center's policy and our guide to daycare fever rules.

Caring for your child at home

• Use saline drops and gentle suction to clear the nose before feeds and sleep.
• Run a cool-mist humidifier.
• Offer smaller, more frequent feeds.
• Use fever medicine as your pediatrician advises, dosed by weight.
• Keep your baby away from smoke and vapor.

Antibiotics do not treat RSV, because it is a virus.

Lowering the risk

• Wash hands often, at home and at drop-off.
• Keep sick siblings and visitors away from young babies.
• Clean toys and surfaces often.
• Do not share cups or pacifiers.
• Keep your child home when sick.

Frequently asked questions

How long is RSV contagious?

Usually 3 to 8 days. Young babies can spread the virus for up to 4 weeks, even after symptoms improve.

Can my baby go to daycare with RSV?

Not while they have a fever or trouble breathing. Many centers allow return after 24 hours without fever if your child is breathing and eating well.

Should my baby get the RSV shot before starting daycare?

Ask your pediatrician. The AAP recommends protection for all babies under 8 months in their first RSV season unless the birth parent received the RSV vaccine at least 14 days before delivery.

My baby already had RSV. Do they still need the shot?

Usually yes. Pediatric guidance says a past RSV infection does not remove the recommendation, because babies can be infected again in the same season.

Can children get RSV more than once?

Yes. Later infections are usually milder.

Infant care at Children's Land

At Children's Land, if a child becomes sick during the day, they rest away from other children and our director calls your emergency contact. Our infant program gives each baby a primary teacher who knows their routine. Find a location near you.

Related reading: How Often Do Daycare Kids Get Sick in the First Year?