What is Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)?

RSV is a common virus that can be found worldwide. It affects the respiratory tract (such as the mouth, throat, and lungs) and has been around since 1955. When someone infected with RSV sneezes or coughs, they will create respiratory droplets. Coming into contact with these droplets will put you at risk of getting sick with RSV. Practicing good hygiene (such as washing your hands) can greatly reduce your risk of getting sick. It is also important to wear a mask if you go outside if you ever feel unwell. Additionally, remember to cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough.

 

Should I be worried about RSV?

Most people that get sick from RSV will recover in just a few days. For most healthy adults, RSV usually causes symptoms similar to those of a common cold (such as runny nose, fever, coughing, sneezing). Most generally do not need medication and will get better with plenty of water and rest. However, children and adults older than 60 are more likely to have weaker immune systems. These populations may be more at risk of getting sick and may experience more serious symptoms (such as pneumonia, confusion, breathing difficulties, exhaustion).

Previous infections from RSV does not protect you from future infections. This is why those at risk are recommended to get vaccinated for RSV to prevent illnesses.

 

Should I get vaccinated for RSV?

There are currently 3 vaccines for the immunization of RSV. AREXVY from GSK, ABRYSVO from Pfizer, and mRESVIA from Moderna. For the body to build up the best immunity, it is recommended to get immunizations when you are NOT sick. Based on current recommendations, only 1 shot is needed to be fully immunized for the rest of your life. Not everyone should get the RSV vaccine as only specific populations should. You can ask your doctor or pharmacist if RSV vaccination is recommended for you. One of the populations that is recommended to get the RSV vaccine would be older adults.

All adults 75 years of age or older are recommended to get 1 shot of RSV vaccination regardless of any conditions.

Adults 60 – 74 years of age that are at risk of severe RSV disease may receive 1 shot of RSV vaccination.

 

You may be at risk for severe RSV illness if you have:

  • Heart disease (such as heart failure, coronary artery disease)
  • Lung disease (Such as COPD, asthma, emphysema)
  • Kidney disease (such as severe chronic kidney disease, hemodialysis)
  • Sickle cell anemia
  • Obesity with BMI > 40 kg/m2
  • Living in a nursing home
  • Moderate to severely weakened immune system
  • Other conditions that your doctor considers to increase risk of severe RSV disease

 

What else can I do to protect myself?

  • Wash your hands whenever you come home
  • Avoid speaking face to face with or sitting near people who are sick
  • Clean household surfaces (doorknobs, chairs, tables)
  • Sanitize after touching surfaces that are regularly touched (shopping carts, doors)
  • To protect your family and friends, wear a mask if you ever feel unwell

Grandparents love to visit their newborn grandkids, which may put the newborn at risk of an RSV infection. If the grandparents get vaccinated for RSV, they could protect their grandkids as well!

 

Where can I get the RSV vaccine?

Most pharmacies carry and offer the RSV vaccines. Scheduling an appointment is recommended to guarantee your spot as pharmacies may be busier during these times of the year as many people rush to get their flu and COVID vaccines. Walk-ins are also generally welcomed but be sure to call your pharmacy ahead of time to make sure the vaccine is in stock. There may also be pop-up vaccine clinics that offer RSV vaccines as well. RSV vaccines are generally covered by most insurance plans for no copay. AREXVY and ABRYSVO are the most common and readily available vaccines while mRESVIA may be harder to find as it was more recently introduced to the market.

 

Can I get the RSV vaccine at the same time as other vaccinations?

Yes, any of the RSV vaccines may be given alongside any other adult vaccinations safely. However, getting more than one vaccine at a time may cause you to experience the side effects of each vaccine at the same time.

 

Resources

For information on RSV recommendations in those that are pregnancy, please see our other blog RSV in Infants and Children.

For more information on CDC RSV vaccination recommendations, visit Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Immunizations.

 

Written by:

Hanry Jiang

PharmD Candidate 2025

Philadelphia College of Pharmacy

 

References

  1. American Lung Association. RSV in adults [Internet]. ALA; [Updated 2024 Aug 1]. Available from: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/rsv/rsv-in-adults#:~:text=Most%20people%20develop%20only%20mild,certain%20adults%20at%20high%20risk.
  2. Jain H, Schweitzer JW, Justice NA. Respiratory syncytial virus infection in children [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; [Updated 2023 Jun 20]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459215/.
  3. RSV vaccine guidance for older adults. CDC; 2024 Aug 30. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/hcp/vaccine-clinical-guidance/older-adults.html.