Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory illness, usually causing mild, cold-like symptoms. However, RSV can lead to more serious conditions like bronchiolitis and pneumonia, particularly in infants, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Preventative measures, including antibody shots and vaccines, are crucial for managing this widespread virus.
Understanding the Adult RSV Antibody Shot
An “antibody shot” for RSV provides immediate, passive immunity by directly delivering laboratory-made antibodies. Unlike vaccines, which stimulate the body to produce their own antibodies, these monoclonal antibodies help fight the virus. For RSV, products like nirsevimab (Beyfortus) are primarily used for infants and young children to prevent severe disease.
Dosage and Administration
When considering an “adult RSV antibody shot” in terms of milligrams, it is important to clarify that currently, there isn’t a widely available monoclonal antibody product specifically for general adult RSV prevention that is dosed in milligrams. The primary preventative measures available for adults against RSV are vaccines.
Two main RSV vaccines are approved for adults: Arexvy and Abrysvo. Both are administered as a single 0.5 milliliter (mL) dose via intramuscular injection. This injection is typically given into the deltoid muscle of the upper arm. A single dose is generally considered sufficient to provide protection for an entire RSV season.
Who is Recommended to Receive It?
The RSV vaccines are recommended for specific adult populations who are at increased risk for severe RSV disease. These recommendations primarily target older adults. Individuals aged 60 years and older are generally advised to consider receiving an RSV vaccine. This age group faces a higher risk of complications from RSV infection, including hospitalization and death.
Adults aged 18 to 59 years with certain chronic medical conditions may also be recommended to receive an RSV vaccine. These conditions can include chronic lung disease, chronic heart disease, kidney disease, liver disorders, and diabetes. Individuals with weakened immune systems due to disease or medication are also typically included in this high-risk category.
What to Expect After the Shot
After receiving an RSV vaccine, individuals can expect protection to develop within approximately two weeks following the injection. This protection is designed to last for the duration of the RSV season, which typically runs from fall through spring. The vaccine helps reduce the risk of developing severe RSV-associated lower respiratory tract disease.
Common side effects are generally mild and temporary, usually resolving within a day or two. These can include pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site. Other reported side effects may involve headache, fatigue, muscle aches, and joint stiffness. Serious allergic reactions are rare but can occur, necessitating immediate medical attention if symptoms like difficulty breathing or swelling of the face and throat develop.