RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) Vaccine for Adults
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jul 7, 2024.
AMBULATORY CARE:
The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine
is given as a shot in 1 dose to prevent RSV. Your healthcare provider may recommend the vaccine if you are at high risk for an RSV infection. An RSV infection causes breathing problems because your airways become swollen and filled with fluid and mucus. An RSV infection may lead to other lung problems, such as pneumonia or bronchiolitis. RSV is mainly spread through coughing, sneezing, or close contact. RSV infection is most common from fall through spring.
Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:
- Your mouth and throat are swollen.
- You are wheezing or having trouble breathing.
- You have chest pain or your heart is beating faster than usual.
- You feel like you are going to faint.
Seek care immediately if:
- Your face is red or swollen.
- You have hives that spread over your body.
Call your doctor if:
- You feel weak or dizzy.
- You have increased pain, redness, or swelling around the area where the shot was given.
- You have questions or concerns about the RSV vaccine.
The RSV vaccine may be recommended for the following:
- Adults 60 years or older
- Pregnant persons between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy, or at least 2 weeks before delivery (protects infants)
What to tell your healthcare provider before you get the RSV vaccine:
- You have a known allergy to any component (part) of the vaccine.
- You take a medicine that weakens the immune system, such as steroids.
- You have a weak immune system, such as from cancer or HIV, or a family history of immune system problems.
- You have atrial fibrillation (a-fib) or other heart disease, a lung disease, or diabetes.
- You have a history of Guillain-Barré syndrome, especially after you received a vaccine.
- You have any severe allergies.
- You are breastfeeding.
Treatment options
The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.
Reasons you should not get the RSV vaccine or should wait to get it:
- Do not get the RSV vaccine if you have ever had a severe allergic reaction to any component.
- Wait to get the RSV vaccine if you are sick or have a fever on the vaccine appointment day.
Risks of the RSV vaccine:
The vaccine may cause mild symptoms, such as a fever, headache, and muscle or joint pain. You may also have mild to moderate soreness or redness at the area where you were given the shot. You may still get RSV after you receive the vaccine. You may have an allergic reaction to the vaccine. This can be life-threatening.
Apply a warm compress
to the injection area as directed to decrease pain and swelling.
Follow up with your doctor as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
© Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Learn more about RSV Vaccine for Adults
Treatment options
Symptoms and treatments
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
