RSV Vaccines Are Here. Let’s Make Sure Adults Know Why They Matter

Introduction

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is no longer just a pediatric concern. In 2023, the CDC expanded its recommendations to include RSV vaccination for adults aged 60 and older, especially those with underlying health conditions. Yet, in 2025, adult vaccination rates remain below 40 %. Why?

Understanding the Stakes

RSV causes serious illness in older adults, leading to hospitalizations and even death. The availability of vaccines like Arexvy (GSK) and Abrysvo (Pfizer) marked a major public health milestone. But awareness and uptake haven’t kept pace with availability.

Barriers to Uptake

• Limited Awareness: Many adults are unaware that RSV poses a risk to them or that vaccines are available.
• Provider Hesitation: Some healthcare providers are uncertain about recommending RSV vaccines due to nuanced CDC guidance, which suggests shared clinical decision-making rather than universal recommendation.
• Access and Coverage: Insurance coverage varies, and some patients face out-of-pocket costs or logistical hurdles.
• Vaccine Fatigue: After years of COVID-19 messaging, some adults are hesitant to engage with new vaccine campaigns.

What Can Be Done

To improve uptake, stakeholders across healthcare must act:

• Clearer Communication: Public health messaging should emphasize the risks of RSV and the benefits of vaccination in plain language.
• Provider Education: Clinicians need support in navigating shared decision-making conversations with patients.
• Improved Access: Ensuring vaccines are covered and easy to obtain—especially in pharmacies and primary care settings—is key.
• Patient-Centered Outreach: Campaigns should focus on empathy, safety, and empowerment, not fear.

Conclusion

RSV vaccines offer a powerful tool to protect vulnerable adults. But tools only work when they’re used. By addressing barriers and building trust, we can turn availability into impact.

References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. RSV Vaccination Recommendations for Adults 60+. Published 2023. Updated 2025. Accessed July 22, 2025.
2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. FDA Approves First RSV Vaccines for Older Adults. Published May 2023.
3. Falsey AR, Hennessey PA, Formica MA, Cox C, Walsh EE. Respiratory syncytial virus infection in elderly and high-risk adults. N Engl J Med. 2005;352(17):1749-1759. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa043951
4. Kaiser Family Foundation. Adult RSV Vaccination Rates in the U.S., 2025. Published June 2025. Accessed July 22, 2025.
5. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. ACIP Meeting Summary: RSV Vaccine Recommendations for Adults. Published June 2023. Accessed July 22, 2025.