How often do you need the Arexvy (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) RSV vaccine?

Arexvy RSV Vaccine Dosing Schedule

Adults need only a single dose of the Arexvy RSV vaccine, which provides protection for at least two RSV seasons, with no current recommendation for revaccination. 1

Vaccination Schedule Details

• Single dose requirement: The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends that eligible adults receive only one dose of RSV vaccine 1
• Duration of protection: A single dose provides protection for at least two consecutive RSV seasons 1, 2
• No revaccination needed: Adults who have already received an RSV vaccine should not receive another dose 1
• Future considerations: The need for additional doses will be evaluated by ACIP in the future, with recommendations updated as needed 1

Timing Recommendations

• Optimal timing: While vaccination can occur year-round, it provides maximum benefit when administered in late summer or early fall, just before RSV season 1
• Recommended window: In most of the continental United States, the optimal vaccination period is August-October 1
• Seasonal considerations: RSV season typically runs from fall through spring, with peak activity varying by geographic location 3

Population-Specific Recommendations

The current ACIP recommendations (as of June 2024) specify that:

• All adults aged ≥75 years should receive a single dose of RSV vaccine 1
• Adults aged 60-74 years with risk factors for severe RSV disease should receive a single dose 1
• Risk factors include:
  • Chronic medical conditions (especially respiratory conditions like COPD/emphysema)
  • Moderate or severe immunocompromise
  • Residence in nursing homes 1, 3

Vaccine Effectiveness

The single-dose approach is supported by strong efficacy data:

• Arexvy provides approximately 83% protection in adults 2
• Vaccine efficacy against RSV-related lower respiratory tract disease was 82.6% in clinical trials 4
• Protection appears to maintain effectiveness across multiple seasons, with a cumulative efficacy over 3 seasons of 62.9% 3

Important Considerations

• Co-administration: RSV vaccines can be safely administered with other adult vaccines during the same visit 1
• Contraindications: Individuals who have had severe allergic reactions to previous doses should not receive the vaccine 5
• Risk-benefit assessment: Healthcare providers should inform patients about both benefits and potential risks, including the small risk of Guillain-Barré syndrome associated with protein subunit RSV vaccines 1

The single-dose strategy for Arexvy represents an effective approach to RSV prevention in older adults, with ongoing monitoring to determine if and when additional doses might be needed in the future.