Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major driver of illness during the fall and winter respiratory season. While it is often mistaken for the common cold, its impact on older adults is far more severe. Symptoms start like congestion, cough, and fatigue but can quickly advance into lower respiratory tract disease (LRTD) such as pneumonia, bronchiolitis, or COPD exacerbation.
RSV leads to 100,000–150,000 hospitalizations and up to 10,000 deaths each year in U.S. adults, especially seniors.
According to CDC estimates:
For communities in Cleveland and Parma, Ohio, this means winter brings not just flu surges but RSV admissions that crowd hospitals. In Miami and Fort Lauderdale, Florida, RSV risk is constant because the virus circulates year-round in warm climates and dense retirement communities.
RSV matters in 2025 because its impact now rivals influenza for older adults. The introduction of vaccines offers protection for the first time — but only if eligible adults get immunized.
RSV vaccines block the virus’s fusion protein, preventing lung infection and lowering hospitalization risk.
RSV spreads by attaching to respiratory tract cells and fusing into them with its F (fusion) protein. The vaccines — Arexvy, Abrysvo, and mResvia — teach your immune system to recognize this protein and mount a defense before RSV spreads into the lungs.
What makes RSV vaccines different from flu vaccines is their multi-season durability. A flu shot wears off in about six months, requiring annual doses. RSV vaccines are built to last across more than one season, which means fewer appointments and more consistent protection.
This durability is especially valuable for Ohio seniors who face winter RSV surges and Florida seniors exposed year-round. A single dose can cover both.
The CDC now recommends RSV vaccines for all adults 75+ and for adults 50–74 with certain health risks.
Universal Recommendation
Risk-Based Recommendation
Adults aged 50–74 should be vaccinated if they have:
Special Populations
This broader age eligibility reflects how RSV has been affecting adults younger than 60, not just the elderly. By including high-risk adults as young as 50, the CDC hopes to reduce seasonal hospitalizations significantly.
Arexvy, Abrysvo, and mResvia are FDA-approved RSV vaccines, each with different features and benefits.
1. Arexvy (GSK)
2. Abrysvo (Pfizer)
3. mResvia (Moderna)
All three are delivered as a single intramuscular shot in the upper arm, similar to the flu shot.
Mild soreness, fatigue, and headaches are common RSV vaccine side effects, while serious complications are rare.
Common Side Effects (7–29%)
Most side effects are mild to moderate and clear within 1–2 days:
Managing Side Effects
Serious Side Effects (Rare, <1%)
Pregnancy-Specific Considerations (Abrysvo only)
Scenario: A 68-year-old in Cleveland who received Arexvy reported mild arm soreness and fatigue for two days — far less disruptive than the risk of hospitalization. A pregnant woman in Miami who took Abrysvo at week 34 protected her newborn during the high-risk first six months.
RSV vaccines are more effective than flu shots at preventing severe illness in seniors, but both are essential.
RSV vaccines provide long-lasting protection, while flu vaccines remain critical for seasonal outbreaks.
| Vaccine | Effectiveness | Duration | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arexvy | 60–65% trials; 83% real-world | 3 seasons | Strongest real-world data |
| Abrysvo | 58–63% in adults; 68–72% pregnancy | 2 seasons | Infant protection in pregnancy |
| mResvia | ~80% trials; 50–58% real-world at 18 months | 18 months | No GBS warning |
| Flu Shot | 36–55% | 6 months | Annual protection for all ages |
Flu shots remain vital for the broader population, while RSV vaccines specifically reduce severe illness in adults 50+. Both vaccines together significantly cut hospitalization risk.
Yes, flu and RSV vaccines can be given at the same appointment, and even with the COVID vaccine.
CDC guidance confirms co-administration is safe:
For busy adults in Cleveland or Miami, this one-stop option ensures protection without multiple trips to the clinic.
Vaccines are available at Ohio urgent care centers and Florida pharmacies and clinics.
Ohio (Health Express Urgent Care locations):
Most insured adults pay $0, while uninsured costs range from $40 to $250.
Under the Affordable Care Act, ACIP-recommended vaccines must be covered with no cost-sharing. For uninsured adults, urgent care centers and health departments may offer reduced pricing.
Vaccinate by October, maintain hygiene, and monitor for red flag symptoms.
Even vaccinated adults should take precautions to reduce exposure and protect vulnerable loved ones.
This year’s flu shot is trivalent, covering two influenza A strains and one B strain.
Vaccinating in September–October offers the best seasonal coverage. Adults vaccinated too early (July–Aug) may see reduced immunity by spring.
Cleveland faces heavier flu hospitalizations, while Miami struggles with RSV year-round.
Both cities highlight the need for adults to stay current on both vaccines.
Time & Protection
| Factor | Flu Shot | RSV Vaccine |
|---|---|---|
| Onset of immunity | 2 weeks | 2–3 weeks |
| Duration | 6 months | 18–36 months |
| Booster needed | Annual | Not recommended |
Cost
| Vaccine | Insurance | Uninsured |
|---|---|---|
| Flu Shot | $0–20 | $40–70 |
| RSV Vaccine | $0–50 | $180–250 |
Do I need an RSV vaccine if I’ve had RSV before?
Yes. Previous infection doesn’t offer strong or lasting immunity. Vaccination adds reliable protection.
Can RSV and flu vaccines be given in different arms?
Yes. Many providers recommend separating injection sites to reduce soreness.
Are RSV vaccines safe if I have egg allergies?
Yes. None of the three RSV vaccines are made with egg protein.
How long does RSV vaccine protection last?
Arexvy protects for 3 seasons, Abrysvo for 2, and mResvia for about 18 months.
Can ibuprofen help with RSV vaccine side effects?
Yes. Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can manage soreness and fever. Pregnant women should consult their provider.
What if I’ve had side effects from other vaccines?
You may experience similar mild effects, but serious reactions remain rare.
Does Medicare cover RSV vaccines?
Yes. Medicare Part D covers them for eligible adults.
Can RSV and flu infections happen at the same time?
Yes. Co-infection is possible and increases severity.
Should I delay RSV vaccine if I’m sick?
Mild illness is fine. Moderate or severe illness should delay vaccination until recovery.
What’s the CDC’s outlook for the 2025–26 season?
CDC expects a season similar to last year, with vaccination offering the best chance to reduce hospitalizations.
Every fall, adults in Cleveland, Parma, Avon Lake, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale face the same pattern: hospitals fill up, RSV and flu collide, and older adults land in the ICU. Don’t wait until you’re short of breath or stuck in an overcrowded ER. The vaccines are here now — and they work.
At Health Express Urgent Care, you can take control of your health in one simple visit:
The difference between a mild cough and a week in the hospital often comes down to timing. Protect yourself before RSV and flu peak this winter.
👉 Find your nearest Health Express Urgent Care location today and get vaccinated before the season hits its worst.
Health Express Urgent Care is a walk-in urgent clinic that serves Northeast Ohio. We have centers in Cleveland, North Ridgeville, Avon Lake, Mayfield Heights, Parma, Shaker Heights, Middleburg Heights, Hartville, Marysville and North Olmsted, OH. Our urgent care centers offer express care and convenient treatment for illnesses, injuries, x-rays, primary care, behavioral health, and occupational health services.
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