RSV Vaccine Eligibility for Adults: A Comprehensive Guide
Estimated reading time: 8 minutes
- Adults 75 and older are strongly recommended to receive the RSV vaccine.
- Adults 50-74 with certain underlying health conditions are eligible.
- Three FDA-approved RSV vaccines are available for eligible adults.
- Vaccination is ideally done in late summer/early fall.
- Consult your doctor to determine your eligibility and best vaccine option.
- Understanding RSV Vaccine Eligibility for Adults
- Who is Eligible for the RSV Vaccine?
- FDA Approvals and Available RSV Vaccines
- Expanded FDA Approvals for Younger Adults (18-59 years)
- Timing of Vaccination and Number of Doses
- Coadministration with Other Vaccines
- Practical Takeaways and Actionable Advice
- Conclusion
- Call to Action
Understanding RSV Vaccine Eligibility for Adults
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends RSV vaccination for specific adult populations to prevent severe illness and hospitalization. This recommendation is based on the significant risk RSV poses to vulnerable individuals. Unlike some vaccines requiring annual boosters, the current RSV vaccine is a single-dose vaccination.
Who is Eligible for the RSV Vaccine?
- All adults aged 75 and older: This age group is considered high-risk for severe RSV disease, making vaccination a crucial preventative measure.
- Adults aged 50–74 years with increased risk of severe RSV disease: This group requires further qualification. Individuals within this age bracket should receive the vaccine if they have one or more of the following underlying conditions:
- Chronic cardiovascular disease
- Chronic lung or respiratory disease
- End-stage renal disease
- Diabetes mellitus with complications
- Neurologic or neuromuscular conditions
- Chronic liver disease
- Weakened immune system
- Residence in a long-term care facility
- Frailty
- Severe obesity
- Other medical conditions
FDA Approvals and Available RSV Vaccines
Three FDA-licensed RSV vaccines are currently available for adults:
- GSK’s Arexvy
- Moderna’s mResvia
- Pfizer’s Abrysvo