COVID and RSV vaccines: Important protection for anyone 65 or older
Updated vaccines offer extra protection for older adults during cold and flu season.
If you're 65 or older, fall is a good time to ask your doctor or care team about vaccines for COVID-19 and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Both of these viruses can cause serious illness in older adults. But vaccines offer valuable protection — all the more reason to add them to your "to do" list.
Why these vaccines matter for older adults
As we age, our immune systems have a harder time fighting off infections. As a result, people 65 and older have higher risks for serious illness and hospital stays from both COVID-19 and RSV. The risks are even higher if you also have heart disease, diabetes or chronic lung conditions.
The good news is that vaccines work well at preventing severe illness from COVID and RSV, even as we get older.
Key facts about COVID vaccines
The updated COVID vaccines protect against the virus strains spreading right now in our communities.
Who should get vaccinated: The CDC recommends the updated vaccine for anyone 65 and older. This includes people who've had COVID before or gotten earlier vaccines. It's especially important if you live in a group care facility or have chronic health conditions.
When to get vaccinated: You can get a COVID vaccine even if you had COVID recently. Many people get their COVID and flu vaccines at the same visit, but your primary care provider (PCP) or pharmacist can help you decide on the best timing for your personal situation.
What it does: The updated vaccine gives you protection from getting infected and prevents serious illness if you do get sick. It can lower your chances of a hospital stay and reduce your risk of long COVID, too.
RSV vaccines: Crucial protection for older generations
We used to think RSV only affected babies. But recent outbreaks have shown it can cause serious illness in older adults, too. This illness spreads during the same months as flu and COVID — usually late fall through early spring.
It sends thousands of older people to the hospital each year.
What is RSV? Respiratory Syncytial Virus feels like a bad cold at first. You might have a cough, congestion and fever. In older adults, it often leads to pneumonia. RSV also can worsen conditions like asthma, chronic-obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or heart failure.
Who should consider it: If you're 50 or older, talk with your PCP about whether you'd benefit from the RSV vaccine. It's recommended for people 75 and older or those who are higher risk due to certain chronic health conditions or reside in group settings such as a nursing homes or assisted living facilities.
One and done: Unlike your annual flu shot, you only need to get this vaccine once. RSV vaccines for adults became available in 2023.
Getting vaccinated
Can you get multiple vaccines at once? Yes! You can safely get flu, COVID and RSV vaccines at the same visit. Your PCP can help you decide what makes sense for you.
Side effects: Most people feel only mild discomfort after getting vaccinated. You might:
- Feel sore where you got the shot.
- Be tired for a day or two.
- Get a low-grade fever.
These are normal signs your body is building protection.
Cost: Most insurance covers these vaccines with no copay. Medicare covers COVID, flu and RSV vaccines at no cost when you see an in-network provider or pharmacy.
When to talk to your doctor
Most symptoms of seasonal illnesses can be managed at home with rest, fluids and over-the-counter remedies. But it's a good idea to call your doctor's office if you have:
- Fever that won't come down.
- Cough that gets worse instead of better.
- Trouble breathing.
- Extreme tiredness.
- Loss of taste or smell.
Early treatment can lower your chances of complications from COVID, flu and RSV.
An ounce of prevention
Getting vaccinated in October means you're protected before the height of cold and flu season, when illnesses spread widely in our communities. If you wait until the winter months, you’ll still have valuable protection from these viruses. Staying up to date on your vaccines also protects the people around you from getting sick.
Learn more about how vaccines can protect the people you love and staying healthy as you get older.
Important note: Vaccine recommendations may change as we learn more. It's a good idea to check with your primary care provider to get personalized guidance on what's right for you.
