Medicare.gov

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Shot

If you’re  65 or older, you have a higher risk of getting sick from respiratory viruses like the flu, COVID-19, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Vaccines are a safe way to protect yourself from serious complications and hospital visits. This flu season, it’s important to get your flu, COVID-19, and RSV shots. 

 •   Ask your health care provider or pharmacist about getting other vaccines. It’s safe to get the flu shot with other vaccines, like the COVID-19 vaccine and RSV shot.
•    Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
•    Wash your hands and clean surfaces you touch often.


RSV is a respiratory virus that causes cold-like symptoms. People who are 65 and older are at high risk of having serious health complications from RSV. Getting the RSV shot can protect you from getting RSV.

Medicare drug coverage (Part D) covers the RSV shot (not Part A (Hospital Insurance) or Part B (Medical Insurance) ). 

Your costs in Original Medicare

People with Part D usually pay nothing out of pocket for most vaccines, including the RSV shot. 

Part D covers all vaccines that the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends, including vaccines for RSV, shingles, whooping cough, and more. Your drug plan won't charge you a copayment or deductible for vaccines that ACIP recommends. 

If the RSV shot isn't on your plan's drug list (formulary) yet, you can ask the plan for a coverage exception. You can also pay for the shot out of pocket and then follow-up with your plan to get reimbursed. If you pay for the shot upfront, your plan must pay you back.

Things to know

  • Adults 60 and older with hematologic disorders, like sickle cell disease, may benefit from getting the RSV shot.
  • You can get the RSV shot in many places, including your doctor’s office and your local pharmacy. If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, contact your plan to find out where you can get the RSV shot.
  • It’s safe to get the RSV shot with other vaccines, like a COVID-19 vaccine and flu shot.

Related resources

Learn more about RSV

RSV in Older Adults and Adults with Chronic Medical Conditions

Is my test, item, or service covered?