The respiratory syncytial virus, known as RSV, is seeing an uptick in cases. 

The increase in cases is mostly impacting infants and older adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and vaccine research is already well underway.  

Pfizer announced on Tuesday that its data from its first RSV vaccine trial is promising. Pharmaceutical company GSK has announced the Food and Drug Administration has accepted its application for an RSV vaccine for seniors, and Pfizer says it will soon seek FDA approval for its RSV vaccine. 

In the international trial of the vaccine, Pfizer tested the vaccination in pregnant women and found it was about 82% effective in preventing severe RSV in the first 90 days of an infant’s life. 

"A vaccine given to pregnant women can protect these infants who have never been exposed to the RSV,” said Dr. Han of Kings County Hospital. “Some of the maternal antibodies will pass into the baby and provide protection when they are most vulnerable." 

In the meantime before a vaccine is available to the public, doctors say simple precautions like washing your hands, wearing masks if you have symptoms, and making sure surfaces are clean can help keep you safe from RSV and other respiratory diseases.