How Often Is the RSV Vaccine Repeated?

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can cause serious lung infections, especially in older adults and young children. With the recent approval of RSV vaccines for adults and pregnant people, many are asking: “RSV vaccine how often do I need it?” Below is a clear, up-to-date overview based on CDC and FDA guidance.

Who Should Get an RSV Vaccine?

1. Adults 60 and older
   The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved two RSV vaccines—Arexvy (GSK) and Abrysvo (Pfizer)—for people aged 60 and up.
2. Pregnant people
   Abrysvo is also approved for pregnant individuals between 32 and 36 weeks of gestation to protect newborns in their first months of life.
3. Future approvals
   Research continues on vaccines for infants and toddlers; for now, monoclonal antibodies (like nirsevimab) are used in high-risk infants.

RSV Vaccine Schedule: How Often?

For Adults Aged 60 and Older

• One dose per RSV season
  ACIP (Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices) recommends a single dose before the start of each RSV season.
• Why annual?
  • Immunity may wane over time.
  • RSV strains can change from year to year.
  • Annual dosing mirrors flu-shot timing (fall), making it easier for clinics to coordinate both vaccines.

At this point, there’s no recommendation for more than one dose within a single season. Future data may refine timing or booster needs.

For Pregnant People

• One dose per pregnancy
  Vaccinate between 32 and 36 weeks gestation to maximize antibody transfer to the fetus.
• Repeat each pregnancy
  If you become pregnant again in a later season, you should receive the vaccine again between weeks 32 and 36.

For Infants and Young Children

Currently, vaccines are not approved for infants. Instead, high-risk babies (preterm, certain heart or lung conditions) may receive nirsevimab, a long-acting antibody. This is given as:

• A single dose before the RSV season
• Protection lasts about 5 months, covering the height of RSV activity

Check with your pediatrician to see if your child qualifies.

Common Questions

1. Why not just one lifetime dose?

• RSV immunity is not lifelong.
• Viruses evolve; annual vaccination helps match circulating strains.
• Annual boosting is similar to other respiratory vaccines (e.g., influenza).

2. Can I get my flu shot and RSV vaccine together?

• Yes. Studies show they can be given at the same visit.
• This reduces the number of clinic trips and ensures broader protection against respiratory viruses.

3. What about side effects?

Most people tolerate the RSV vaccine well. Common side effects include:

• Mild pain or redness at the injection site
• Muscle aches
• Fatigue
• Headache

These generally resolve in a day or two. Serious allergic reactions are rare.

4. What if I miss the start of RSV season?

• Get vaccinated as soon as possible.
• Protection begins about two weeks after the shot.
• You don’t need to wait for the next season—catch-up vaccination is recommended.

Planning Your RSV Vaccine

• Talk to your primary care doctor or pharmacist in late summer or early fall.
• Coordinate with your annual flu shot for convenience.
• If you’re pregnant, schedule with your obstetrician between weeks 32–36.

Monitoring Symptoms

Even with vaccination, no vaccine is 100% effective. If you develop cough, fever, wheezing or difficulty breathing:

• Consider doing a free, online symptom check, using the doctor approved Ubie Symptom Checker
• Keep an eye on symptom progression over 24–48 hours.
• Seek medical care if you experience severe trouble breathing, chest pain or confusion.

Why Annual RSV Vaccination Matters

• Reduces hospitalizations. Older adults and infants face the highest risk.
• Lowers health-care burden. Fewer ER visits and nursing-home outbreaks.
• Protects vulnerable communities. Annual coverage builds herd immunity.

Talk to Your Doctor

Guidelines evolve as more data emerge. Always discuss with your health-care provider:

• Whether you fall into a recommended group
• The best timing for your vaccine
• Any concerns about side effects or interactions with other vaccines

If you have a medical emergency (severe difficulty breathing, chest pain, sudden confusion), seek immediate care or call emergency services.

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Staying up to date on your RSV vaccine—especially if you’re 60 or older or pregnant—can help keep you and your loved ones healthier through RSV season. Always “speak to a doctor” about any serious or life-threatening concerns.