Vulnerable Individuals Can Get RSV Vaccine at Pharmacy Without Prescription
12/5/2023
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Posted by Fidelis Care
in
Health and Wellness,
Immunizations
Individuals ages 60 or older and pregnant people do not need a prescription to get a respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine at participating pharmacies. RSV infections usually occur during the fall and winter. If you are eligible, you should get vaccinated as soon as possible to stay healthy.
What is RSV?
RSV is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild sickness. It can be very harmful to young children, older adults, and people with other medical conditions.
What are the symptoms of RSV?
RSV symptoms are like those of the common cold. This includes runny nose, coughing, sneezing, and fever. RSV can also cause pneumonia, especially in very young children, very old individuals, or those with weakened immune systems.
Who is at risk for RSV?
Older adults are at greater risk for serious complications from RSV. Conditions like chronic heart or lung disease may increase the risk of getting very sick from RSV. Adults living in long-term care facilities may especially benefit.
Premature infants and infants under 6 months of age are at risk. If a pregnant person gets the vaccine, it will help protect the newborn baby.
Talk with your provider about getting the RSV vaccine. Read more about RSV here.