Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common, but serious virus that often causes colds. It can be severe for infants and older adults. People with RSV infection often have fever, cough, runny nose, wheezing—and in very young infants—increased irritability and difficulty breathing.
RSV is spread through contact with droplets from the nose and throat of infected people when they cough or sneeze—just like COVID-19 and influenza (flu). Since RSV can spread at the same time as COVID-19 and influenza (flu), it’s important to protect yourself and others with immunizations from all three viruses.
The RSV vaccine (shot) is recommended for:
- All infants under 8 months of age.
- Infants and toddlers 8 through 19 months of age at high risk for severe RSV.
- Adults 60 years of age or older.
You can get your RSV vaccine (shot) at the same visit as your flu and COVID-19 vaccines.
For more information about the RSV vaccine (shot), call GCHP’s Health Education Department at 1.805.437.5718, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (except holidays). If you use a TTY, call 711.
Reach out to your doctor, clinic, or pharmacy to ask if RSV vaccine (shot) is right for you and about availability.