The New York State Department of Health has updated its statewide standing order, allowing pharmacists to administer the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine to eligible people in New York. The new guidance is aimed at improving access for older adults and pregnant individuals during the RSV season.
State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common illness we see each fall and winter, and while many experience only mild, cold-like symptoms, it can be serious, especially for older adults and infants. This updated standing order now makes it easier for eligible New Yorkers to protect themselves and their loved one.”
Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that each year in the United States, RSV results in an estimated 60,000-160,000 hospitalizations and 6,000-10,000 deaths among people aged 65 or older.
The vaccine is recommended as a one-time dose for adults aged 50 years or older. Those over age 75 are considered at particularly high risk of complications from RSV and are encouraged to get vaccinated with available options such as mRESVIA, Arexvy or Abrysvo. People with chronic heart, lung, kidney or liver disease may also face greater risks if infected.
Pregnant people can help protect infants under six months old by receiving a single dose of the vaccine between weeks 32 through 36 of pregnancy during RSV season. Infants may also receive protection through preventive antibodies—nirsevimab or clesrovimab—after birth; usually only one form of prevention is needed.
Healthcare providers are advised to discuss both maternal vaccination and infant monoclonal antibody products with pregnant patients when considering how best to protect newborns against RSV.
RSV spreads easily through close contact. While most infections cause mild symptoms like those of a cold, the virus can lead to more severe illnesses such as pneumonia or bronchiolitis in vulnerable groups like infants and older adults. In some cases where infants contract RSV, treatment may require supportive care or hospitalization if symptoms worsen.
More information about RSV is available here.
