RSV vaccine

Getting vaccinated for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) helps protect your body from severe illness. Unlike other common vaccines like the COVID or flu shot, it’s not an annual routine, and it’s not meant to be given to everyone.

For people who are at higher risk due to their age or personal situation, the RSV vaccine is effective in reducing the likelihood they get seriously sick. Your family doctor can help you determine if you need the RSV vaccine.

Who should get the RSV vaccine

The American Academy of Family Physicians recommends that adults 75 and older receive the RSV vaccine, along with adults aged 50 through 74 who are at increased risk. Pregnant people should get the vaccine for protection during the right window or plan to immunize their infant before or during their first RSV season.

When to get the RSV vaccine

The best time to get the RSV vaccine depends on who is receiving the shot. For most adults, late summer or early fall is usually enough time before RSV season ramps up. Pregnant people should get the RSV shot between 32- through 36-weeks gestation during RSV season.

Infants do not receive a traditional vaccine for RSV. If there was no vaccination during the pregnancy or vaccination occurred less than 14 days before delivery, they may receive a long-acting monoclonal antibody—which essentially provides direct protection instead of telling their body how to make it—before their first RSV season. High-risk children aged between 8 through 19 months may be recommended for another antibody dose before their second RSV season.

As is the case with any immunization, your family doctor will be able to provide the best guidance.

Where to get an RSV vaccine

RSV vaccines are available at many doctor’s offices and clinics, meaning you may be able to get your shot from your family physician. You also can likely get your vaccine at a nearby pharmacy, supermarket, or other location that provides vaccines.

Make sure you check before you go somewhere for a vaccine, as availability may be limited. Your family physician may be able to help you find where to get RSV vaccines.

Types of RSV vaccines

There are three brands of RSV vaccines that are widely available. Abrysvo, Arexvy and mResvia are FDA-licensed RSV vaccines given to eligible adults to help their immune system recognize RSV and lower the risk of severe lower respiratory tract illness.

Abrysvo is the only vaccine given to pregnant people. It is recommended during weeks 32 through 36 of pregnancy, September through January, to help protect the baby from severe RSV illness after birth. Rather than a traditional vaccine, infants may also receive long-acting monoclonal antibodies called nirsevimab or clesrovimab, which provide direct protection.

RSV vaccine effectiveness

The RSV vaccine is effective in lowering your risk of severe RSV illness. This includes complications that can lead to hospitalization or death. No immunization provides complete protection, so it’s still possible to get sick after getting an RSV vaccine.

This is especially helpful for infants. A child is most vulnerable to RSV during the early months of their life, so being immunized during pregnancy or receiving antibody protection after birth helps keep them healthy.

RSV vaccine side effects

You may feel some mild side effects of the RSV vaccine after getting your shot. Soreness around where the injection was made is common. Some people also experience fatigue, headache, muscle pain, or fever.

Severe allergic reactions to the RSV vaccine are rare. Tell the person giving you the shot if you’ve had a severe allergic reaction to a previous vaccine or know you’re allergic to any vaccine ingredients.

Frequently asked questions about RSV vaccines

Who is considered high risk for RSV?

People at higher risk for RSV include infants, adults 75 and older, and adults ages 50 through 74 who have certain health conditions. This can include anything from chronic lung disease or a weakened immune system to severe obesity or restricted mobility. The best person to ask if RSV vaccination is right for you is your family physician.

Should I get the RSV vaccine every year?

No, RSV vaccination is not needed yearly. Adults who have gotten one shot are not recommended to receive another dose. Your family physician can help you determine what’s best for your individual situation.

Can I get the RSV vaccine if I already had RSV?

Yes, you should be vaccinated for RSV even after having RSV. Having one case does not always give you long-lasting immunity. Speak with your doctor if you have questions about when to get vaccinated.

Do babies get the RSV vaccine?

Most infants do not receive a traditional RSV vaccine. Some get the protection they need in the womb when RSV vaccines are administered during pregnancy. Others are given RSV antibodies that provide the protection themselves rather than giving their body instructions on how to build protection.

Can I get the RSV and shingles vaccines together?

Yes, and many people get the shingles and RSV vaccines together to you knock out two immunizations in one trip. Your family doctor or the person giving you the shot can help you decide the best timing based on your age, health, and vaccine history.