Q. What should I know about the RSV vaccine for adults?
A. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a highly contagious, seasonal virus which causes lung infections. The FDA has approved two brands of single dose RSV vaccines for adults over 60 years old, Arexvy and Abrysvo. In clinical trials, both vaccines were 80% effective in preventing lower respiratory tract disease. Common side-effects are usually mild and similar to flu vaccines.
The RSV vaccine is strongly recommended for older adults with heart disease, lung disease such as COPD, diabetes or weakened immune systems as they are at high risk for life-threatening diseases such as pneumonia and bronchiolitis caused by RSV. The CDC estimates that RSV is responsible for 60,000-160,000 hospitalizations and 6,000-10,000 deaths annually for adults aged 65 and older.
Ruby Valley Medical Center has the Arexvy vaccine in-stock and recommends that older, at-risk patients get vaccinated for RSV. Please call (406) 842-5453 to schedule an appointment.
