The RSV vaccine is recommended for specific high-risk groups, including older adults, pregnant women, and infants, to prevent severe respiratory illness.
Adults
RSV vaccination is strongly recommended for adults aged 75 and older, as well as for those aged 50–74 who have underlying medical conditions that increase their risk of severe disease. These conditions include chronic heart or lung disease, a weakened immune system, diabetes, or living in a nursing home. In the U.S., the CDC advises that all adults 75 and older receive an RSV vaccine, and those aged 60–74 with risk factors should also be vaccinated. Similarly, Germany’s STIKO recommends a single RSV vaccination for all individuals aged 75 and above.
Pregnant Women
Pregnant women are advised to receive the RSV vaccine between 28 and 36 weeks of gestation to protect their newborns through passive antibody transfer. This maternal vaccination helps shield infants during their first few months of life when they are most vulnerable to severe RSV disease. The vaccine Abrysvo® is approved for this use and is available free under national immunization programs in some countries, such as Australia.
Infants and Young Children
All infants should be protected against RSV, either through maternal vaccination during pregnancy or direct immunization with monoclonal antibodies like nirsevimab or clesrovimab. Infants under 8 months of age entering their first RSV season should receive a single dose of nirsevimab or clesrovimab if their mother was not vaccinated or was vaccinated less than 14 days before delivery. For children aged 8 to 19 months entering their second RSV season, immunization is recommended if they have high-risk conditions such as chronic lung disease, severe immunocompromise, cystic fibrosis with severe manifestations, or being of American Indian or Alaska Native descent.
National Programs
In the UK, the NHS offers free RSV vaccination to pregnant women from 28 weeks, and to adults aged 75 to 79, or those who turned 80 after September 1, 2024. The Abrysvo® vaccine is used in the national adult RSV program and works by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies against RSV.
Vaccination timing is crucial, with late summer to early fall being the optimal period in most regions to ensure protection during peak RSV season. The vaccine is not currently administered annually, as protection lasts more than one year.
