RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)

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Basic Facts

RSV stands for Respiratory Syncytial Virus. It is a virus that infects the lungs and airways. RSV spreads easily from person to person. In older adults, RSV can cause severe pneumonia, which can be life-threatening.

Getting an RSV vaccine helps protect you from RSV. If you get the vaccine, you are less likely to get RSV. If you do get RSV after being vaccinated, you are less likely to get very sick.

Your healthcare professional will help you decide whether to get the RSV vaccine:

  • Adults age 75 and older should get the RSV vaccine
  • Adults age 50–74 should get the RSV vaccine if they have certain risk factors. Your healthcare professional will look at your health history to help you decide if the vaccine is right for you.

If you and your healthcare professional decide you should get the RSV vaccine, fall is the best time to get it. RSV spreads most in the fall and winter.

Coverage for an RSV vaccine varies:

  • RSV vaccines are covered by Medicare Part D
  • RSV vaccines may not be covered by Medicare Part B right now
  • Private insurance companies can each decide on their own whether to cover the RSV vaccine
  • You should ask before you get your vaccine if it will be paid for by your insurance so you will know how much you may need to pay before you receive it. 

Vaccines are available at many locations:

  • Most drug stores
  • Community health centers
  • State or local health departments
  • Ask your doctor or healthcare professional

Possible adverse effects of vaccination

You may have short-term muscle pain, tiredness, or swelling where you got the shot. These side effects are usually mild and similar to what you might feel after a flu shot.

 

Last Reviewed and Updated: May 2026
By: AGS/HiAF Public Education Committee, HealthinAging.org Content Reviewers

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