Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) mRNA vaccine

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of respiratory illness. This virus spreads easily and usually affects the lungs and airways. For most people, infections may feel like a common cold, but for some, the virus can be life-threatening.

The respiratory syncytial virus mRNA vaccine is used to prevent lung disease caused by respiratory syncytial virus in adults:

• 60 years of age and older; or
• 18 to 59 years of age who are at a higher risk for RSV (due to conditions such as diabetes, or lung or heart disease).

The respiratory syncytial virus mRNA vaccine does not contain RSV and cannot cause lung disease from RSV.

Like any vaccine, the respiratory syncytial virus mRNA vaccine may not protect every person from disease.

Read all vaccine information sheets provided to you.

This vaccine is given as an injection (shot) into a muscle. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

Fainting may happen. Be careful to avoid falling or getting hurt.

Getting infected with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is much more harmful to your health than getting this vaccine.

Let your doctor know if you are taking other medicines, have other medical conditions, or have any allergies.

You should not receive this vaccine if you have ever had a severe allergic reaction to any part of this vaccine.

Inform your doctor or vaccination provider if you have or have ever had:

• a weak immune system (due to disease or certain medications);
• bleeding issues or are taking a blood thinner;
• fainting after an injection;
• a severe allergic reaction to any other vaccine;
• if you have received any other RSV vaccine;
• fever; or
• any other allergy.

Let your doctor or vaccination provider know if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

The vaccination provider may want to observe you for a short time after the injection to ensure you do not have an allergic reaction or faint. You will be treated quickly if there is a reaction right after receiving the vaccine.

Some side effects may occur after the injection. Inform your vaccination provider if you feel dizzy, weak, or have fast heartbeats, or a skin rash all over your body.

Becoming infected with respiratory syncytial virus is much more dangerous to your health than receiving this vaccine.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) mRNA vaccine may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor immediately if you have:

• fever; or
• loss of movement in your face.

Common side effects of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) mRNA vaccine may include:

• pain, swelling, tenderness, or redness in the armpit of the arm where the vaccine was injected;
• headache;
• joint or muscle pain;
• feeling very weak or tired;
• chills; or
• nausea, vomiting.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report vaccine side effects to the US Department of Health and Human Services at 1-800-822-7967.

Usual Adult Dose for Vaccination:

18 through 59 years: 0.5 mL IM as a single doseUse: For active immunization for the prevention of lower respiratory tract disease (LRTD) caused by RSV in individuals at increased risk for LRTD caused by RSV

Usual Geriatric Dose for Vaccination:

60 years and older: 0.5 mL IM as a single doseUse: For active immunization for the prevention of LRTD caused by RSV

Since this vaccine is given as a one-time injection, you probably will not have a dosing schedule.

An overdose of this vaccine is not likely to happen.

Follow the instructions from your vaccination provider regarding any limits on food, drinks, or activities.

Before getting this vaccine, inform your vaccination provider about all the vaccines you have had. Other medications may impact this vaccine, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal products. Let your doctor know about all the medicines you are using.