Most seniors get the RSV vaccine once, not on a schedule

The RSV vaccine for older adults is a single-dose vaccine, not a series you repeat every year like the flu shot. Once you receive it, you are protected against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a respiratory illness that can cause serious pneumonia and hospitalization in people over 60.

The vaccine approved for seniors is called Arexvy (made by GSK) or Abrysvo (made by Pfizer). Both are given as a one-time injection, usually in the upper arm. Your doctor can give it during a regular visit, often at the same time as other vaccines like flu or pneumonia shots.

Because this is a newer vaccine for seniors — first approved in 2023 — guidance may shift as more data comes in. Right now, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends one dose for adults 60 and older, with no booster dose planned at this time.

Key Takeaways

  • The RSV vaccine for seniors is a single dose, not an annual or recurring shot.
  • Two vaccines are available: Arexvy and Abrysvo, both given as a one-time injection.
  • The CDC recommends the vaccine for all adults 60 and older, though some older or immunocompromised adults may benefit most.
  • You can receive the RSV vaccine at the same visit as your flu or pneumonia vaccine, but ask your doctor about spacing if you have concerns.
  • Talk to your doctor about whether the vaccine is right for you, especially if you have chronic lung or heart conditions.

Who should get the RSV vaccine and when

The CDC recommends the RSV vaccine for all adults aged 60 and older. If you are in this age group, you can discuss with your doctor whether to receive it. The vaccine is especially important if you have chronic conditions like asthma, COPD, heart disease, or diabetes, because RSV can trigger serious complications in people with these conditions.

If you live in a nursing home, assisted living facility, or other congregate setting, the vaccine may be particularly valuable because RSV spreads quickly in close quarters. Similarly, if you spend time around young children or grandchildren — who often carry RSV — the vaccine can reduce your risk of catching and spreading the virus.

There is no specific "best time" to get the RSV vaccine during the year. You can receive it whenever you and your doctor decide it makes sense, whether that is during a routine checkup or at the same visit as your annual flu shot.

What happens if you already had RSV

Having RSV in the past does not mean you are permanently protected. People can catch RSV more than once in their lifetime, and immunity from a previous infection fades over time. The vaccine still offers protection even if you have had RSV before.

If you recently had RSV illness, ask your doctor when it is safe to receive the vaccine. Most doctors recommend waiting until you have fully recovered, usually a few weeks after symptoms end. There is no need to rush — the vaccine will still work when you are ready.

Spacing the RSV vaccine with other shots

You can receive the RSV vaccine at the same time as other vaccines, including the flu shot, pneumonia vaccine, or shingles vaccine. They can be given in different arms on the same day without any problem.

If you are receiving other vaccines that are not live vaccines, there is no waiting period required between them. If you have received a live vaccine recently (such as the shingles vaccine Zostavax, though this is less common now), ask your doctor about timing, as spacing may be recommended.

Possible side effects and what to expect

The RSV vaccine is generally well tolerated. Common side effects are mild and short-lived: arm soreness at the injection site, fatigue, muscle aches, or low-grade fever. These typically appear within a day or two and resolve within a few days.

Serious side effects are rare. If you experience severe allergic reaction, difficulty breathing, or chest pain after the vaccine, seek medical attention right away. Before you receive the vaccine, tell your doctor if you have had a severe allergic reaction to any vaccine ingredient in the past.

Cost and where to get the vaccine

Medicare Part B covers the RSV vaccine for adults 60 and older at no cost to you — no copay, coinsurance, or deductible. If you have private insurance, coverage varies by plan, so check with your insurer before your appointment.

You can receive the RSV vaccine at your primary care doctor's office, a pharmacy with a vaccination clinic (such as CVS or Walgreens), or a health department clinic. Call ahead to confirm they have the vaccine in stock, since availability can vary by location and season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a booster shot after the first RSV vaccine?

No booster is currently recommended. The CDC's guidance is for a single dose only. If recommendations change in the future based on new research, your doctor will let you know.

Can I get the RSV vaccine if I have a weakened immune system?

Yes. The RSV vaccine is not a live vaccine, so it is safe for people with weakened immune systems, including those on immunosuppressive medications or with HIV. Talk to your doctor about the best timing for your situation.

What if I missed getting the vaccine last year — do I need to start over?

No. Since it is a single-dose vaccine, there is no series to restart. You can receive it whenever you and your doctor decide, regardless of how much time has passed.

Can I get the RSV vaccine if I am allergic to eggs?

Yes. Neither Arexvy nor Abrysvo contains eggs or egg protein. If you have other allergies, tell your doctor before the vaccine so they can review the ingredient list with you.

Is the RSV vaccine the same as the pneumonia vaccine?

No, they are different vaccines that protect against different infections. RSV vaccine protects against respiratory syncytial virus, while pneumonia vaccines protect against bacterial pneumonia caused by pneumococcus. You can receive both.