Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) immunization for adults

The RSV vaccine protects against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and is effective in preventing lower respiratory tract infections. Immunization is particularly beneficial for individuals at high risk of infection, such older adults.

The vaccine is given as an injection that stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies. It takes about two weeks to provide complete protection.

 Multiple vaccines can be given at the same time. This means earlier protection against multiple diseases and fewer appointments. Receiving multiple vaccines at the same time is safe and does not compromise the effectiveness of vaccines.   

The vaccine is offered free of charge for New Brunswick residents who are:

• 75 years of age and older.
•  Indigenous individuals 60 years of age and older.
• 60 years and older living in long-term care (nursing homes and adult residential facilities).
• 60 years and older receiving alternate level of care (ALC) or waiting for placement in the long-term sector (nursing homes and adult residential facilities.
• 60 years of age and older in rehabilitation units within hospitals (or specific rehab centers) due to an acute illness or injury, as well as those hospitalized in acute care beds awaiting transfer to these units or centers.

Immunization can significantly reduce the risk of complications from RSV and the likelihood of being hospitalized.

The vaccine should not be given if you had a severe allergic reaction to any ingredient in the product or its container.

There is no need to delay getting immunized because of a cold or other mild illness. However, if you have concerns, speak with your health-care provider.

Inform your immunization provider if you have any health problems or allergies.

Reactions are generally mild and last one to two days. Common reactions may include soreness, redness and swelling where the vaccine was given. Fever may also occur. For mild reactions, a cold compress at the injection site may reduce discomfort. Ask a health- care provider which medication is best to reduce fever.

With any immunization, there is an extremely rare possibility (less than one in a million people) of a life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. For this reason, it is important to remain in the clinic for 15 minutes after receiving the vaccine. Signs of this reaction may include rash, difficulty breathing or swelling of the throat, tongue or lips. This reaction can be treated. Seek immediate medical attention if you have left the vaccination site and develop serious symptoms.

If you experience unusual reactions to the vaccine or you have any questions or concerns, please contact your primary care provider, pharmacy, Public Health office or Tele-Care (811).

Vaccine safety:  RSV vaccines have a good safety profile in adults. An increased risk of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) after vaccination has been identified in adults 65 years of age and older, however, RSV infection may also increase the risk of GBS in this age group. Guillain-Barré syndrome (say "ghee-YAN bah-RAY") is a problem with your nervous system. It causes muscle weakness, loss of reflexes, and numbness or tingling in your arms, legs, face, and other parts of your body. Vaccination experts will continue to monitor the safety profile.

You can book a vaccine appointment through a primary health-care provider, local participating pharmacy, Public Health clinic (Horizon, Vitalité) or online using the provincial scheduler

If a New Brunswick resident doesn't have a New Brunswick Medicare card but is eligible for the vaccine, call 1-833-437-1424 to book an appointment.

Long-term care residents from a nursing home or an adult residential facility can receive their vaccine on site.

Vaccination records for people aged 16 and older are available by registering online at MyHealthNB. To access your immunization record, please register or sign into your account.

The paper record of immunization provided when vaccinated will continue to be the official record. Keep your immunization record in a safe place.

Immunizations administered prior to 1991 may not be readily accessible in "MyHealthNB. If your vaccination record is not available at MyHealthNB, contact the place you received your vaccines.