RSV Vaccine - Respiratory Syncytial Virus | Walgreens
What is RSV?
Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is a common respiratory virus that typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Most people recover within two weeks. However, certain groups, such as infants, young children, and older adults, are more likely to develop severe infections including bronchiolitis (an inflammation of the small airways in the lung) and pneumococcal pneumonia.
While many people associate RSV with babies and young children, older adults can also get the virus and are at risk for developing complications. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that about 110,000 to 180,000 adults age 50 and older in the U.S. are hospitalized because of RSV each year. The chances of getting very sick from RSV increase as you get older or if you have certain health conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
References:
Center for Disease Control and Prevention. RSV in Adults. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/adults/index.html. opens in a new window Accessed: 04/2/2026
Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Vaccines for Adults. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/vaccines/adults.html.opens in a new window Accessed: 04/2/2026.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection (RSV). Available at : https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/index.html.opens in a new window Accessed: 04/2/2026.