What to know
- RSV can be dangerous for older adults, especially those who have certain medical conditions, are elderly or frail, or live in a nursing home.
- CDC recommends RSV vaccines for adults ages 60 and older, using shared clinical decision-making.
Overview
RSV infections can be dangerous for certain adults. Each year, it is estimated that between 60,000-160,000 older adults in the United States are hospitalized and 6,000-10,000 die due to RSV infection. Adults at highest risk for severe RSV infection include:
- Older adults
- Adults with chronic heart or lung disease
- Adults with weakened immune systems
- Adults with certain other underlying medical conditions, like severe obesity and severe diabetes
- Adults living in nursing homes or long-term care facilities
Severe RSV
When an adult gets an RSV infection, they typically have mild cold-like symptoms, but some may develop a lung infection or pneumonia.
RSV can sometimes also lead to worsening of serious conditions such as:
- Asthma
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) – a chronic disease of the lungs that makes it hard to breathe
- Congestive heart failure – when the heart can't pump enough blood and oxygen through the body
Adults 60 and older who are at increased risk include those with certain chronic medical conditions, those who are elderly or frail, and those living in nursing homes. Older adults who get very sick from RSV may need to be hospitalized. Some may even die.
Spotlight
Care
Antiviral medication is not routinely recommended to fight infection. Most RSV infections go away on their own in a week or two. However, RSV can cause severe illness in some people.
Take steps to relieve symptoms:
- Manage fever and pain with over-the-counter fever reducers and pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
- Drink enough fluids. It is important for people with RSV infection to drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration (loss of body fluids).
When to seek emergency care
RSV vaccine for older adults
A single dose of an RSV vaccine can help protect adults aged 60 years and older from getting very sick from RSV. Talk to your healthcare provider to see if vaccination is right for you. If you haven't yet received a dose and you decide with your healthcare provider to get one, the best time to get vaccinated is in late summer and early fall. This timing ensures you're protected by the time RSV starts to spread in your community and ensures you get maximum protection during the winter months.
If you are eligible for an RSV vaccine, you can get it at the same time you get other recommended vaccines, such as flu or COVID-19 vaccines. For information about where to find vaccines in your area, visit Where to Find Vaccines.
