What is RSV?
RSV stands for respiratory syncytial (sin-SISH-uhl) virus, which is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Most people recover in a week or two, but RSV can be serious. Babies and older adults are more likely to develop severe RSV and need hospitalization. Vaccines are available to protect older adults from severe RSV.

People are typically infected with RSV for the first time as babies or toddlers, and most children are infected before their second birthday. But sometimes, repeat infections happen throughout life, and people of any age can be infected.

Who should get vaccinated?
Babies, toddlers, and adults ages 60 and older should get an RSV vaccine. Additionally:

  • People at increased risk for pneumococcal disease include children younger than 5 years old and adults 65 years or older.
  • Vaccines are also recommended for people who have long-term health conditions, like heart disease or asthma, those with weakened immune systems, and also people who smoke cigarettes.
  • A previous pneumococcal infection will not protect you from future infection, so CDC recommends pneumococcal vaccination even for people that have already had pneumococcal disease in the past

Why should you get this vaccination?

  • Infants and older adults are more likely to develop severe RSV and need hospitalization.
  • If you are pregnant, you can get an RSV vaccine between 32–36 weeks of pregnancy to protect your infant after birth, or a preventive antibody can be given to your baby after birth.
  • People infected with RSV usually show symptoms within 4 to 6 days after getting infected. Symptoms of RSV infection usually include runny nose, decrease in appetite, coughing, sneezing, fever, and wheezing
  • RSV vaccines help protect adults 60 years and older from severe RSV illness. Older adults are at greater risk than young adults for serious complications from RSV because immune systems weaken with age. Also, certain underlying medical conditions may increase the risk of getting very sick from RSV. Older adults with these conditions may especially benefit from getting the RSV vaccine. If someone you know is 60 and older, it is best for them to talk to their healthcare provider to see if they need an RSV vaccination.

Where can you get it?

  • Locations for testing: Urgent cares
  • Locations for vaccination: Walgreens, CVS, and Publix

More information:
Learn more about RSV here.