The number of RSV infections is increasing year by year. It's worth getting vaccinated.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is transmitted through respiratory droplets and causes respiratory infections. For years, it was incorrectly associated with childhood infections. However, it also poses a significant threat to seniors. RSV infection can lead to pneumonia in older adults, increasing the risk of heart attack, or hospitalization. It is estimated that 336,000 seniors worldwide are hospitalized each year due to this virus.

"Infections such as influenza or RSV can exacerbate underlying diseases and often require hospitalization. Hospital treatment is not only more costly, but in the long run, it worsens the prognosis for the patient's length and always quality of life," explained Prof. Artur Mamcarz, head of the 3rd Clinic of Internal Medicine and Cardiology at the Faculty of Medicine of the Medical University of Warsaw, quoted in press materials.

Studies conducted in the US show that approximately half of people aged 60 and over infected with RSV developed complications within a month of diagnosis.

In Poland, epidemiological data on RSV infections have been officially collected only since 2023. They show that the number of these infections is growing year by year - for example, in 2024 there were 41,631 cases, and from January 2025 to August 15, 20225 - already 92,167 cases, i.e. more than twice as many.

According to Professor Mamcarz, this may be due to improved awareness among physicians and the availability of combo tests that simultaneously detect influenza, RSV, and SARS-CoV-2 infections. Testing has shown that many cold-like infections are caused by RSV.

There is no causal treatment for this virus. The most effective forms of protection against RSV are passive immunization for young children and vaccinations registered for pregnant women (which provide protection for infants in the first months of life) and adults.

"The upcoming flu season is a good time to consider RSV prevention, especially among people over 60, who are at increased risk of severe infection and for whom it may prove more serious than the flu," said Professor Mamcarz. He added that his own observations show that vaccinated people not only have a lower risk of infection, but also experience milder symptoms.

In Poland, the RSV vaccine is reimbursed for pregnant women and seniors aged 65 and over, while people aged 60 and over can purchase it at a 50% discount.

This year, for the first time in Poland, free, simultaneous vaccination against influenza and RSV is also available for selected groups of patients. A list of pharmacies and facilities where vaccinations can be obtained is available at: https://pacjent.gov.pl/aktualnosc/zaszczep-sie-w-aptece.

"This is not only safe but also convenient for the patient: it limits the number of visits, saves time, and allows for faster development of more comprehensive immune protection. Proper planning and simultaneous vaccination are currently one of the most effective preventive strategies, increasing the chances of getting through the infectious season without complications," said Professor Mamcarz.

According to sociologist Dr. Tomasz Sobierajski from the University of Warsaw, simultaneous vaccination can help seniors maintain their health and independence. "It's important to emphasize that the possibility of simultaneous vaccination against influenza and RSV is a very favorable circumstance. Firstly, it increases the convenience of patients, who can protect themselves against two serious infections during a single visit. Secondly, it increases vaccination rates by reducing organizational and time barriers, which can be significant for seniors," said the expert.

Detailed information about RSV and possible ways to prevent infections with this virus can be found at: www.szczepieniersv.pl.

Copyrighted material - reprint rules are specified in the regulations .