Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory illness affecting all ages. While often causing mild, cold-like symptoms, RSV can lead to severe conditions like bronchiolitis and pneumonia, especially in vulnerable populations. These severe infections may require hospitalization. Immunization helps reduce the severity of RSV infections.
Who Is Recommended to Receive the RSV Shot?
RSV immunization targets specific groups for protection.
The CDC recommends the RSV vaccine for older adults, specifically those aged 75 and older, and individuals 60-74 with chronic medical conditions increasing their risk of severe RSV disease. Available vaccines include Arexvy (GSK), Abrysvo (Pfizer), and mResvia (Moderna). These vaccines stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies.
Pregnant individuals are also recommended for RSV immunization to protect their newborns. The Pfizer vaccine, Abrysvo, is approved for pregnant people. This maternal vaccination transfers protective antibodies to the baby, offering defense against severe RSV during the infant’s first months of life.
Infants and young children, especially those born near or during RSV season, are another target group. A monoclonal antibody product like Beyfortus (nirsevimab) or clesrovimab is recommended for this population. These products provide immediate, temporary protection. They are also advised for some children aged 8-19 months at higher risk for severe RSV disease entering their second RSV season.
How Often Is the RSV Shot Administered?
The frequency of RSV immunization varies by recipient and product type (vaccine or monoclonal antibody). This variation ensures tailored protection for different age groups and risk profiles.
For older adults, the RSV vaccine is a single dose. The CDC’s ACIP states it is not an annual vaccine, meaning eligible adults do not need a dose every RSV season. Future evaluation will determine if additional doses are needed.
Pregnant individuals receive a single dose of the RSV vaccine (Abrysvo) during each pregnancy. This ensures protective antibodies pass to each baby. Protection from the mother typically lasts about six months after birth.
Infants receive a single dose of a monoclonal antibody product, such as nirsevimab (Beyfortus) or clesrovimab. This injection provides protection throughout their first RSV season. Unlike vaccines, which stimulate antibody production, monoclonal antibodies directly provide pre-formed antibodies, offering immediate protection for at least five months. Some high-risk children aged 8-19 months may also receive a single dose of nirsevimab for their second RSV season.
When Is the Best Time to Get the RSV Shot?
Timing RSV immunization maximizes protection, given the virus’s seasonal nature. Strategic timing ensures immunity is established before peak RSV activity.
Adults, including older individuals and those at increased risk, should get vaccinated in late summer or early fall. This ensures immunity before the typical RSV season, which runs from fall through spring in most of the United States.
Pregnant individuals should receive their RSV vaccine between 32 and 36 weeks of gestation. This window allows time for antibodies to develop and transfer to the fetus, protecting the newborn from birth. The vaccine is administered seasonally, typically from September through January in most continental U.S. regions.
For infants, the monoclonal antibody (Beyfortus or clesrovimab) is administered shortly before or early in their first RSV season. Infants born during the RSV season (October-March) should receive the dose within one week of birth, ideally during hospitalization. Infants born outside the RSV season typically receive immunization in October or November, just before the season starts.