The RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) vaccine is recommended for the following groups:
- Older adults:
- All adults aged 75 years and older should get the RSV vaccine.
- Adults aged 60 to 74 years who are at increased risk of severe RSV disease due to conditions such as chronic heart or lung disease, weakened immune system, or living in a nursing home should also get vaccinated
* In some countries, like Australia and Canada, specific recommendations include Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 60 and over, and adults in nursing homes or with medical risk conditions
- Pregnant women:
- The RSV vaccine is recommended during pregnancy (typically between 28 and 36 weeks) to protect the baby after birth through passive immunity
- Infants and young children:
- Infants less than 8 months old, especially if their mothers did not receive the maternal RSV vaccine or if they are at increased risk of severe disease, are recommended to receive RSV antibody treatment or vaccination
* Older infants and young children aged 8 to 24 months who are at risk of severe RSV disease may also be recommended to get vaccinated
The vaccine is generally given as a single dose, and the best time to get vaccinated is late summer to early fall, though it can be administered at any time
. In summary, RSV vaccination is advised primarily for older adults (especially 75+), adults 60-74 at increased risk, pregnant women to protect infants, and infants at high risk for severe RSV disease
