Understanding the Threat of RSV for Seniors
Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is a common and highly contagious respiratory virus that typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms in healthy people. However, for infants and older adults, an RSV infection can be much more serious, potentially leading to lower respiratory tract disease (LRTD). This condition can cause complications like pneumonia and can also worsen existing heart or lung conditions, such as asthma or COPD. With the weakening of the immune system that occurs with age, seniors are at a higher risk of developing severe illness from RSV, making new preventive measures critically important.
The Newest Respiratory Vaccine Option: mResvia
In the spring of 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) licensed a new RSV vaccine, mResvia, for adults aged 60 and older. Developed by Moderna, this vaccine uses messenger RNA (mRNA) technology, similar to some COVID-19 vaccines. In clinical trials, a single dose of mResvia demonstrated high efficacy in preventing symptomatic RSV in the months following vaccination. As the newest option on the market, it provides another choice for eligible seniors and their healthcare providers to consider when planning for respiratory virus season.
Other Available RSV Vaccines for Older Adults
Before mResvia's approval, two other RSV vaccines were already available and recommended for seniors. These vaccines are also approved for adults aged 60 and older:
- Arexvy (GSK): This vaccine, approved in 2023, is a more traditional subunit vaccine, not based on mRNA technology. Real-world data from the 2023–2024 RSV season showed Arexvy to be highly effective at preventing RSV-related emergency department visits and hospitalizations. It was the first RSV vaccine specifically developed for older adults.
- Abrysvo (Pfizer): Also approved in 2023, Abrysvo is a protein-based vaccine. Its approval also extends to pregnant women to protect their newborns from severe RSV disease. Real-world data has shown high effectiveness in preventing severe illness in older adults as well.
Comparing the RSV Vaccines for Seniors
Choosing the right vaccine is a decision to be made with a healthcare provider. The table below outlines key differences between the three available RSV vaccines for older adults.
| Feature | Arexvy (GSK) | Abrysvo (Pfizer) | mResvia (Moderna) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vaccine Type | Subunit Vaccine | Protein-based Vaccine | mRNA Vaccine |
| FDA Approval | 2023 | 2023 | 2024 |
| Target Population | Adults 60+ | Adults 60+; also pregnant women to protect infants | Adults 60+ |
| Efficacy | Approx. 77-83% effective against severe illness in 2023-2024 season. | Approx. 73-79% effective against severe illness in 2023-2024 season. | Clinical trials showed 80% efficacy in first 4 months, 56% at 12 months. |
| Administration | Single dose | Single dose | Single dose |
| GBS Warning | Yes | Yes | No |
Eligibility and Recommendations for the RSV Vaccine
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issues specific guidance on who should receive an RSV vaccine.
- All adults ages 75 and older: The CDC recommends a single dose of any FDA-licensed RSV vaccine for this group.
- Adults ages 50–74 with increased risk: The CDC also recommends a single dose for adults in this age range who are at increased risk of severe RSV disease. This includes individuals with chronic health conditions like lung or heart disease, a weakened immune system, or other risk factors.
What to Expect from Your RSV Vaccination
Timing and Dosing
For eligible adults who have not previously received an RSV vaccine, it can be administered at any time. However, the CDC notes that the best time to vaccinate is typically in the late summer or early fall, before RSV season begins.
One crucial point is that the current recommendation is for a single dose. You do not need an RSV vaccine annually like the flu shot. Protection from the vaccine is expected to last for more than a year. The CDC continues to monitor the need for future doses and will update recommendations as more data becomes available.
Side Effects and Safety
As with any vaccine, mild side effects are possible. Common reactions may include:
- Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Muscle or joint pain
- Nausea
More serious side effects are rare. The FDA did issue a warning label for the Arexvy and Abrysvo vaccines regarding a slightly increased risk of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) within the 42 days following vaccination. GBS is a rare disorder affecting the nervous system, but experts emphasize that the benefits of the vaccine in preventing severe RSV far outweigh the minimal risks. No similar warning has been issued for mResvia.
Beyond the Vaccine: Other Prevention Measures
While the vaccine is a critical tool, other precautions can help protect seniors from RSV during peak season. These measures include:
- Washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
- Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your upper sleeve.
- Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces.
For more detailed information on RSV and vaccination recommendations, visit the official CDC website: CDC Vaccine Guidance.
Conclusion: Protecting Senior Health
With multiple new vaccine options available, older adults now have powerful tools to protect themselves from severe RSV disease. These single-dose vaccines, recommended by the CDC for those 60 and older (and especially those with risk factors), represent a major step forward in respiratory health. By understanding the options and following public health guidelines, seniors can significantly reduce their risk of complications and stay healthy.
