RSV vaccines expand access this season

Public health officials say RSV vaccines and monoclonal antibodies are increasingly available, but access and insurance hurdles remain a concern.

RSV Season Approaches as Vaccines Expand Access

RSV season is approaching and health officials say protection options are expanding. The FDA has approved vaccines for adults and monoclonal antibodies for infants, offering more ways to guard against the virus. Still, insurance hurdles and supply constraints have at times limited who can get vaccinated.

The CDC now recommends adults 75 and older get vaccinated, and adults 50 and older with certain health conditions should consider vaccination. The guidance broadens eligibility and marks a shift toward prevention. Uptake among seniors has been uneven, with about half of adults 75+ vaccinated as of spring.

The shift from reactive care to preventive protection reflects a broader public health strategy, but it hinges on reliable access. If cost, coverage, or supply gaps persist, the benefits may not reach the people who need them most, especially in nursing homes and underserved communities. The season’s threat is still real even as vaccines improve, and public health messaging must match the growing range of options.

Policy and distribution will shape RSV outcomes this year. The article highlights how regulatory approvals, insurer coverage, and federal guidance interact to determine who gets protection. A successful RSV season will require clearer coverage, steady supply, and ongoing funding to ensure vaccines reach all who are eligible.

Highlights

Access to protection will determine how much RSV season can be kept at bay.