Doctors Confirm RSV Vaccine Safety, Weigh Risks for Healthy Seniors
New York, NY – As millions of Americans become eligible for the newly approved Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccine, medical experts are reinforcing its overall safety while emphasizing the importance of individualized risk assessment, particularly for those over 60. While broadly recommended, doctors are clarifying who stands too benefit most and advising healthy seniors to discuss vaccination with their healthcare providers.
The RSV vaccine has been deemed “very safe” based on clinical trial data, according to Dr. Amesh Adalja, with the risk-benefit ratio clearly favoring vaccination for approved groups. This comes as health officials anticipate a significant impact on reducing severe illness, hospitalization, and death from RSV, a common respiratory virus that can be particularly dangerous for older adults and infants.
Dr. Gregory Schaffner echoed this sentiment, stating simply, “The vaccine is safe,” and noting that he and his wife have both received it. However, Dr. Peter Russo emphasized that the decision to vaccinate should be based on individual health status. “ThereS little question that if your 60 and older and you have significant underlying cardiac disease, pulmonary disease, or other significant comorbidities, the benefits of vaccination really outweigh any potential risks,” he said. “Those people should get vaccinated. RSV can be as deadly as influenza.”
For individuals who are “perfectly healthy” and over 60, Dr. Russo recommends a conversation with their doctor to determine if vaccination is appropriate. “Certainly in high-risk groups, there’s little question where the benefit exceeds a potential and ill-defined risk,” he added.
The Centers for Disease Control and prevention (CDC) advises against receiving the RSV vaccine if a person has experienced a severe allergic reaction to any of its components. Individuals with concerns about potential allergies are encouraged to review the ingredient lists for each of the available vaccines.
Ultimately, doctors stress that personalized guidance is key. Anyone unsure whether the RSV vaccine is right for them should consult with their healthcare provider.