Key facts
- Adults over 60 are at higher risk for severe RSV illness, especially those with underlying health conditions.
- RSV can lead to pneumonia, worsening chronic heart conditions, and hospitalization in older adults.
- The CDC recommends RSV vaccination for adults aged 75 and older.
- Adults aged 50-74 with conditions increasing their risk of severe RSV disease are also recommended for vaccination.
- The RSV vaccine is currently a single-dose vaccination, not an annual shot.
- Low awareness and confusion about eligibility contribute to low RSV vaccine uptake among eligible adults.
Adults over 60 are at an increased risk of severe illness from Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), with over 180,000 seniors hospitalized annually. This risk is amplified for those with pre-existing conditions like heart disease, lung disease, or weakened immune systems. The CDC recommends the RSV vaccine for all adults aged 75 and older, and for those aged 50 to 74 who have conditions that elevate their risk of severe RSV disease. Unlike the annual flu vaccine, the RSV vaccine is currently administered as a single dose. Despite recommendations, vaccination rates remain low among eligible older adults, attributed to low awareness and confusion about eligibility. A conversation with a healthcare provider is encouraged to determine individual risk and vaccination suitability, as RSV can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia and hospitalization, with potential long-term consequences like reduced mobility and increased fall risk.