RSV Vaccines For Older Adults

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a contagious illness that can cause lung infections. While it usually starts with mild cold-like symptoms, it can become more severe for older adults, young children, and people with weakened immune systems.

The CDC recommends the vaccine for adults 75 and older. Those 60-74 can also get vaccinated if they have a high-risk condition such as lung disease, heart disease, or a weak immune system.

You only need to get the vaccine once. The vaccines contain a small part of the RSV virus to help your body create antibodies. These antibodies protect you from getting seriously ill if you’re infected.

Vaccines may not fully protect everyone that receives them, but they can greatly reduce your chances of developing serious lung disease. If you get RSV, the vaccine can lower your chances of developing serious lung disease by 65%-94%, depending on how recently you had the shot.

Some people might experience mild side effects like fatigue, fever, headache, and muscle pain. These side effects don’t normally last very long. It's rare, but there have also been reports of people developing a nervous system condition called Guillain-Barré syndrome following the vaccine.

Ask your doctor if they recommend the vaccine based on your age or health condition, and when the best time is to get vaccinated, Also, discuss possible side effects and any concerns you may have.