Respiratory syncytial virus causes coughs and colds in most people but can lead to severe pneumonia or bronchiolitis in older adults and young babies. Vaccines and antibody products now exist to reduce this risk.
For older adults, an RSV vaccine is recommended in many regions, often from around age 60 or 75 depending on local policy, and earlier for those with certain chronic conditions. During pregnancy, an RSV vaccine given in the later weeks passes protection to the baby for the first vulnerable months. Some infants instead receive a long-acting antibody injection during RSV season.
Eligibility and timing differ by country and are still evolving. If you are an older adult, pregnant, or caring for a newborn, ask a doctor, midwife, or pharmacist whether RSV protection is recommended for you and how it fits with other vaccines.