Respiratory Syncytial Virus, or RSV, presents for most people as a bad cold. Its symptoms include coughing, congestion, and a low fever. However, it is one of the main illnesses that can lead to hospitalization and complications, especially in children and older adults. Untreated, it can be deadly. Fortunately, there are now vaccines available. Let’s break down who needs to get vaccinated and when.
Babies
Parents breathed a sigh of relief when a RSV vaccine became available for infants. The Centers for Disease control recommends that all infants under age eight months get the RSV vaccine in the fall, along with their flu shot, though they can be given the shot later in the season if they haven’t had it yet. Babies between eight and 19 months should also get vaccinated if they are immunocompromised. Preemies are at particular risk.
The RSV vaccine provides increased immunity for several months and, because it is now on the required vaccine schedule, it is offered at no additional cost by your healthcare provider—either because it is fully covered by insurance or by the Vaccines for Children program, which covers Medicaid-eligible children, plus children who are American Indian or Alaskan Native. Babies can get vaccinated at the pediatrician or family doctor’s office according to the usual vaccination schedule or as recommended by the doctor.
Adults over 60
Adults over age 60 are at risk for complications from contracting RSV. The CDC says, “Adults at the highest risk for severe RSV illness include older adults, adults with chronic heart or lung disease, adults with weakened immune systems, and adults living in nursing homes or long-term care facilities.” A different vaccine from the one available for children is recommended for adults over 60. It can be administered along with flu and COVID shots.
There are a few places to get your vaccine. Your primary care doctor or pharmacy carries the RSV vaccine, for starters. And similarly the early COVID shots, there are some RSV shot clinics like public health clinics, Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC), and Rural Health Clinics (RHC).
These preventative shots are usually fully covered by insurance, but you may need to make sure your provider is in network. The CDC says, for adults, “If you have Medicare Part D, your healthcare provider may recommend you get an RSV vaccine at a pharmacy. In some states, a prescription may be needed to get the vaccine at a pharmacy. Discuss with your healthcare provider or pharmacist where the best location to get an RSV vaccine is in your area.”
Pregnant people
During weeks 32-36 of pregnancy, the CDC recommends the RSV vaccine. Getting recommended vaccines during pregnancy helps protect the baby from illnesses for up to six months postpartum. They’ve seen hospitalizations cut in half for infants born to people who were vaccinated against RSV. Pregnant people will likely get their vaccine at their prenatal appointment but can ask about getting it from a primary care doctor or pharmacy.
Other adults and children over eight months
Most people are not particularly at risk from RSV infection. As with any respiratory illness, when sick with RSV, people should avoid others, especially sensitive populations. Currently, vaccines for people under 60 are not recommended or covered by insurance. If you think you’re at risk for RSV due to other health conditions, speak with your healthcare provider about how to minimize exposure.
