CDC issues simplified RSV vaccine guidance for seniors

by Joseph Choi - 06/26/24 5:10 PM ET

FILE - This electron microscope image provided by the National Institutes of Health shows human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) virions, colorized blue, and anti-RSV F protein/gold antibodies, colorized yellow, shedding from the surface of human lung cells. RSV infections are rising sharply in some parts of the country, nearly filling hospital emergency departments in Georgia, Texas and some other states. To help counter the surge, federal officials on Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023, announced they were releasing 77,000 doses of a new RSV shot for newborns that have been in short supply. (National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH via AP, File) — This electron microscope image provided by the National Institutes of Health shows human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) virions, colorized blue, and anti-RSV F protein/gold antibodies, colorized yellow, shedding from the surface of human lung cells. (National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH via AP, File)

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated its RSV vaccine guidance for seniors for this upcoming respiratory viral season, saying the new recommendations are meant to simplify decision-making for patients and clinicians.

The new guidance recommends that everyone over the age of 75 get the RSV vaccine, as well as anyone aged 60 to 74 who is “at increased risk of severe RSV.”

Prior to this, the CDC recommended that everyone over the age of 60 have the option of receiving an RSV vaccine dose.

“This recommendation is for adults who did not get an RSV vaccine last year. The RSV vaccine is not currently an annual vaccine, meaning people do not need to get a dose every RSV season. Eligible adults can get an RSV vaccine at any time, but the best time to get vaccinated is in late summer and early fall before RSV usually starts to spread in communities,” the agency said in a press release.

There are currently two available RSV vaccines approved for use in the U.S. in people over 60, Abrysvo and Arexvy. The latter is also approved for adults aged 50 to 59 who are at an increased risk for severe RSV.

Last year marked the first time RSV vaccines were available to the public. Vaccines or preventive antibodies against RSV have also been approved for pregnant mothers and infants.

“The CDC has updated its RSV vaccination recommendation for older adults to prioritize those at highest risk for serious illness from RSV,” CDC Director Mandy Cohen said in a statement. “People 75 or older, or between 60-74 with certain chronic health conditions or living in a nursing home should get one dose of the RSV vaccine to provide an extra layer of protection.”

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