RSV Vaccines Explained: Answers for Adults 50+

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus. In many people, it causes cold-like symptoms, including cough, sore throat, fatigue, runny nose, and headache.1 However, for adults ages 50 and older, RSV can be far more serious. It can cause more severe illnesses such as pneumonia, bronchiolitis (an infection of the lungs), congestive heart failure, or worsening of asthma or COPD symptoms. Adults who get very sick from RSV may need to be hospitalized — and severe RSV can be life threatening.