RSV vaccine

In the U.S., cold, flu and other respiratory illnesses are common during the fall, winter and early spring months. One of the most contagious is RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus. RSV is usually mild, but it can unfortunately be a serious health concern for certain vulnerable people. Infants, older adults and immunocompromised people may require hospitalization if they develop severe RSV, which is when the infection spreads to the lower respiratory tract (airways and lungs).

Advocate Health Care offers preventive care services to help keep you healthy. We recommend these newly approved vaccinations and antibody treatments to help lessen the severity of RSV in these high-risk groups.

What is the RSV vaccine?

The RSV vaccine for adults is an active immunization (stimulates your immune system to fight infection) that protects certain people from severe RSV illness. Two new immunizations were approved by the CDC to help prevent serious complications in people older than 60 and pregnant people.

What is the RSV antibody treatment?

The RSV vaccine for babies is an antibody treatment that directly protects young infants through passive immunization (offers direct protection because of the presence of antibodies). This shot is also recommended to certain babies and toddlers who have an increased risk of RSV complications due to weakened immune systems. Find out more about children’s vaccinations.

Who should get the RSV vaccines or antibody treatment?

Older adults, pregnant people and young babies can get very sick from severe RSV disease. This condition can even be life-threatening. Talk with your health care provider about getting RSV shots or treatment for yourself or your child.

• Adults 60 years and older can get Arexvy or Abrysvo, one of two new RSV shots for adults.
• Pregnant people between 32 and 36 weeks are also eligible for Abrysvo, which offers protection to them and their unborn baby.
• Babies eight months and younger who were born during or are entering their first RSV season should get the RSV antibody treatment.
• Babies and toddlers 8 to 19 months old who have an increased risk of RSV complications and are entering their second RSV season may also be eligible.

Because the RSV immunization is offered to pregnant people, many infants may already be protected against severe RSV. It’s advised that most babies get this childhood immunization while in utero or from the antibody treatment after birth, but not both. Learn more about recommended vaccinations during pregnancy.

When is the RSV vaccine or antibody treatment given?

RSV season is typically from November to March in the U.S. Adults 60 years and older and pregnant people may be eligible to get their RSV immunization as early as September, but your doctor can provide the recommended timing that’s right for you. It’s safe to get your RSV shot with other vaccines, such as flu or COVID-19, but possible side effects may be worsened when immunizations are given at the same time.

Parents and caregivers can expect their child’s pediatrician to recommend the RSV antibody treatment based on RSV season where you live, though this timeframe is most often October through March. Even though the RSV shot is a newly approved treatment and hasn’t been a standard vaccine until now, it’s recommended for all infants. It’s safe for your child to get their RSV antibody treatment with other childhood immunizations.

What are the side effects of the RSV shot?

As with other immunizations, there may be RSV shot side effects. For adults, mild side effects could include:

• Pain, redness or swelling at the injection site
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Headache
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Muscle or joint pain

Babies and toddlers are less likely to experience side effects beyond pain, redness or swelling at the injection site. Sometimes a rash may occur.

How long does the RSV vaccine last?

The RSV vaccine for adults has been shown to be effective for two RSV seasons, but research is still ongoing. Recommendations may shift as more data is available.

The RSV antibody treatment for most infants is effective at protecting against severe RSV for one season. After that time, your child’s immune system will be strong enough to fight infections on its own. Children 8-19 months old with underlying conditions may be eligible to receive another immunization entering their second RSV season.