Only 15.9% of Seniors Protected Against RSV

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) today announced very few seniors have received an approved vaccine that protects against Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

This common respiratory virus can become severe and require hospitalization.

As of December 8, 2023, the CDC confirmed the percentage of adults 60+ reporting receiving an RSV vaccine was 15.9%.

This CDC data indicates an uptake gap compared to a recent survey.

A recent poll by the University of Michigan's Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation revealed that 21% of seniors want an RSV vaccination in 2023. 

Unlike previous RSV seasons, there are two RSV vaccines endorsed by government agencies, which are as follows:

AREXVY™ RSV vaccine is approved for adults aged 60 and above.

ABRYSVO™ RSVpreF RSV bivalent vaccine is from Pfizer Inc.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the U.K.'s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, and the European Commission recommend adults 60 years and older and pregnant women receive a single dose of an RSV vaccine based on discussions with healthcare providers and under certain conditions. 

Dr. Mandy Cohen, Director of the CDC, commented during a media interview on December 8, 2023, "What we know is that several viruses are circulating, but we also have tools to protect ourselves."

"And we're hoping more can do that before the Christmas holiday."

In the U.S., RSV vaccines are generally available at clinics and pharmacies.