The RSV virus is mostly found in children, but elderly people can also be infected with RSV. The concern is that RSV, once contracted, has no cure and must be treated based on symptoms only. If elderly people are infected with RSV, they are at risk of severe complications and have a higher mortality rate than other age groups. Therefore, it is important not to neglect RSV vaccination for the elderly.
What is RSV?
RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) is a virus that causes respiratory tract infections. It spreads through breathing and contact with secretions. It is mostly seen in infants and young children. Most symptoms are mild and can resolve on their own within 1-2 weeks. However, in elderly individuals, RSV infections can occur and become more severe, with a higher mortality rate than in children due to potential underlying conditions or weakened immunity. Therefore, elderly individuals aged 60 and above and those aged 50 and above with chronic conditions should receive RSV vaccination to prevent and reduce the severity of the disease.
Why do elderly people catch RSV?
In elderly individuals, the cause of RSV infection often comes from naturally declining immunity, making infection easier. Having chronic underlying conditions, especially lung disease, asthma, heart disease, diabetes, or chronic kidney disease, increases the chance of severe symptoms once infected with RSV. As age increases, the body’s immune system has reduced ability to prevent and respond to pathogens, which impacts the effectiveness of white blood cells crucial for fighting viral infections, making the body unable to control the infection properly.
What are the symptoms of RSV in the elderly?
- Fever
- Dry cough, chronic cough
- Nasal congestion, runny nose
- Shortness of breath, weakness, fatigue
- Rapid breathing, wheezing
- Loss of appetite
- Delirium, confusion
How is RSV treated in the elderly?
There is no specific treatment for RSV; the focus is on symptomatic treatment. In cases of mild symptoms, doctors will prescribe fever reducers and expectorants and advise resting fully. However, if symptoms are severe, such as persistent fever, difficulty breathing, or decreased alertness, it is necessary to see a doctor immediately as oxygen supplementation and hospital observation might be required to monitor symptoms closely.
Complications of RSV in the elderly
If an elderly person contracts RSV, there is a risk of complications, potentially being severe enough to cause death, such as pneumonia, heart failure, or bacterial infection complications.
Benefits of RSV vaccination for the elderly
The RSV vaccine is highly beneficial for the elderly, including:
- Boosting immunity to prevent RSV viral infections by 80% – 90%
- Reducing the severity of RSV viral infections by 94.1%
- Reducing the risk of complications from RSV viral infections by 50% – 60%
- Reducing mortality rate from RSV viral infections by 30% – 40%
How many doses of the RSV vaccine are needed for the elderly?
The RSV virus infection protection vaccine for the elderly is administered in 1 dose, injected intramuscularly only once.
Side effects after RSV vaccination in the elderly
- Pain, swelling, redness, itching
- Headache, fever, chills
- Discomfort, fatigue, weakness
- Joint or muscle pain
- Nausea, vomiting
***If severe symptoms occur after vaccination, consult a doctor as soon as possible.
Can I get the RSV vaccine with other vaccines on the same day?
If it is necessary to receive other vaccines along with the RSV vaccine, it is possible to administer them in different areas, and it is advisable to consult with a physician before proceeding with vaccination in detail.
How to prevent RSV infection
- Wash hands frequently with soap
- Avoid touching eyes, nose, mouth with unclean hands
- Wear a mask when sick or in crowded places
- Do not share personal items with others
- Avoid close contact with patients
- Get the RSV vaccine
- Consume a complete diet of 5 food groups
- Exercise regularly
- Ensure adequate rest
- Patients with chronic diseases must manage their condition carefully
Hospitals ready to provide RSV vaccination services
Bangkok Hospital Vaccine Clinic is ready to provide vaccination services to prevent, reduce risk, and mitigate the severity of RSV infections, with specialized doctors and a team of multidisciplinary professionals closely monitoring.
Specialists in RSV viral infection treatment
Dr.. Chayapon Cheetanom Internist Bangkok Hospital
You can click here to make an appointment on your own.
RSV Vaccine Package for the Elderly
RSV vaccine package for elderly people, priced at 8,900 baht
