RSV is a highly contagious virus that causes inflammation in the lower airways.
While most people recover in a few weeks, RSV can be serious. Infants and older adults are most likely to develop severe RSV symptoms that may require hospitalization. RSV vaccines and monoclonal antibodies have been developed to provide needed protection against the dangerous and sometimes life-threatening virus.
RSV symptoms
- Difficulty breathing
- Wheezing
- Runny nose
- Decreased appetite
- Coughing
- Fever
Vaccine recommendations
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Adults ages 75 and older should receive one dose of the vaccine.
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Adults ages 50-74 at an increased risk of severe RSV should receive one dose of the vaccine. Risk factors include: chronic heart or lung disease, a weakened immune system, certain other medical conditions and living in a nursing home.
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Pregnant women can receive one dose of the maternal RSV vaccine during weeks 32 through 36 of pregnancy. It should be administered between September and January, to help ensure protection for their baby, if born during peak RSV season.
The RSV vaccine is not currently an annual vaccine. Adults (including pregnant women) who have already received one dose at any time in the past should not receive another dose at this time.
RSV monoclonal antibody recommendations
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Infants younger than 8 months of age born to mothers who did not receive a maternal RSV vaccine during pregnancy. Two, long-acting RSV antibodies are available for infants: nirsevimab or clesrovimab. An infant RSV antibody dose should be given to babies shortly before the RSV season, or within one week after birth, if born during October through March.
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Infants and young children aged 8-19 months who are at an increased risk of severe RSV disease. This includes children who: were born prematurely and have chronic lung disease, are immunocompromised, have severe cystic fibrosis or are of Indian or Alaska Native heritage. Children will receive one dose of nirsevimab, which is given through two injections. It is administered between October 1 and March 31.
Learn more about the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) RSV vaccine recommendations.
Schedule your RSV vaccine
To schedule your RSV vaccine,
contact your health care provider.
