RSV, short for respiratory syncytial virus, is a that causes mild, cold-like symptoms in most people. While the virus usually clears up in about a week, certain groups are at higher risk of developing severe complications.
Thankfully, there are currently three approved by the Food and Drug Administration to help protect people against the virus: Arexvy by GlaxoSmithKline, Abrysvo by Pfizer and mResvia by Moderna.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends vaccination for both seniors 75 and older and higher-risk populations, particularly those ages 50 to 74 with qualifying risk factors.
“Due to RSV, around 6,000 to 10,000 older adults die annually. Older persons also often have chronic conditions — such as (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), and — which may worsen with severe RSV,” says Dr. Roopa Anmolsingh, a geriatrician at the Cleveland Clinic’s Center for Geriatric Medicine in Ohio.
Given how serious the illness can be in certain populations, it’s important to make sure people are protected from getting RSV and have access to the vaccine through their insurance.
Here’s what you need to know about Medicare coverage of the RSV vaccine.
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Medicare Coverage
As a result of the Inflation Reduction Act, Medicare and with prescription drug coverage must cover the RSV vaccine with no out-of-pocket costs.
| Part of Medicare | Examples of Vaccines It Covers | Notes |
| , pneumonia, hepatitis B and | Covers specific preventive vaccines as well as vaccines to treat exposure to a disease | |
| Part D | Shingles, RSV, Tdap | Covers all commercially available vaccines to prevent illness that the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends, except those covered by Part B |
| Medicare Advantage (Part C) | Most | Covers ACIP-recommended Part D vaccines with a $0 out-of-pocket cost in-network |
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Any vaccine administration fee at the time of service is reimbursable through Medicare. If, when you go to get the vaccine you are told otherwise, you should call 1-800-MEDICARE for assistance.
If you have a plan, find out where you can receive the vaccine within the plan’s network before you make your appointment.
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Avoiding Transmission
Like many viruses, RSV is transmitted through the air and can survive on surfaces for several hours. In addition to vaccination, you can lower your risk of contracting the virus by avoiding contact with those who are sick, frequently and being aware of what you touch while you are out in public.
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Update 07/29/26: This story was previously published at an earlier date and has been updated with new information.
