Older Americans Can Get the RSV Vaccine This Fall After Speaking With Their Doctor

U.S. health officials said Thursday that Americans 60 and older can receive the new RSV vaccination but should first talk to their doctor about it.

The recently authorized vaccinations are anticipated to be available in the autumn, along with the revised COVID-19 vaccines and flu injections.

According to a statement from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, those who are eligible for the RSV vaccination should see their doctor to determine if it is the correct choice for them.

Adults who have compromised immune systems, chronic heart or lung diseases, or who reside in long-term care institutions are more likely to contract the respiratory illness, according to the CDC.

The respiratory syncytial virus, sometimes known as RSV, is a frequent cause of cold-like symptoms, but it may be harmful for young children and the elderly.

Children with wheezing last year packed hospitals due to an increase. Although there isn’t a vaccination for children yet, there may soon be one for expectant mothers to protect against disease in unborn children, pending Food and Drug Administration clearance.

A panel of outside experts’ suggestion for a single dosage of the vaccinations produced by Pfizer and GSK was approved on Thursday by Dr. Rochelle Walensky, the departing head of the CDC.

The vaccinations for people 60 and older were authorized by the FDA last month.

Initially, the CDC panel debated making a stronger recommendation that everyone aged 65 and older receive the vaccine.

However, after hearing concerns from a number of the members over the expense, the necessity for and efficacy of boosters, and how well they work among the weakest of patients, they softened their support.

The cost of the RSV vaccine, according to pharmaceutical company GSK, would be between $200 and $295. Pfizer has not provided a cost.

The effectiveness of the immunizations may last for several seasons, and additional shots may not even be necessary.

Others desired a greater defense for people over 65. Robert Blancato, executive director of the National Association of Nutrition and Aging Services Programs, stated in a statement following the incident that more individuals would have received the immunization as a result.