Uses
This vaccine is used to prevent infection by the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Some brands may also be given during the third trimester of pregnancy to help prevent RSV in the newborn baby. RSV can cause serious illness, especially in older adults with certain health problems (such as heart disease, lung disease) and infants. It works by causing the body to produce its own protection (antibodies) against the virus.
Vaccines may not fully protect everyone who receives them.
How To Use
Read all vaccine information available from your health care professional before receiving the vaccine. If you have any questions, ask your health care professional.
The vaccine is given by injection into a muscle in the upper arm by a health care professional.
Side Effects
Soreness/redness/swelling/bruising at the injection site may occur. Muscle aches, joint pain, headache, or tiredness may also occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your health care professional promptly.
Rarely, some people have symptoms such as fainting, dizziness, vision changes, or ringing in the ears just after getting a vaccine injection. Tell your health care professional right away if you have any of these symptoms. Sitting or lying down may help, since these symptoms usually don't last long.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your health care professional has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your health care professional.
Contact the doctor for medical advice about side effects. The following numbers do not provide medical advice, but in the US you may report side effects to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) at 1-800-822-7967. In Canada, you may call the Vaccine Safety Section at Public Health Agency of Canada at 1-866-844-0018.
Precautions
Before you receive this vaccine, tell the health care professional if you are allergic to it; or to any other vaccines; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your health care professional for more details.
Before receiving this vaccine, tell your health care professional your medical history, especially of:
- current fever/illness
- immune system disorders (such as due to HIV infection, certain cancers such as leukemia/lymphoma, or radiation/cancer treatment)
During pregnancy, RSV vaccination may be recommended. Discuss the risks and benefits with your health care professional.
It is unknown if this vaccine passes into breast milk. Consult your health care professional before breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your health care professional. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Notes
Keep all medical and lab appointments.
Missed Dose
Not applicable.
Storage
Store in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Protect from light. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
