Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Vaccine

What is this medication for?

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccines are used to prevent lower respiratory tract disease (infection of the airways and lungs) caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). RSV is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms but can be serious in certain individuals such as infants and older adults.

These vaccines are typically used in:

• Pregnant women at 32 through 36 weeks gestational age to protect their infants from birth through 6 months of age against RSV disease
• Adults 60 years of age and older to prevent RSV disease
• Adults 18 through 59 years of age who are at increased risk for RSV disease (e.g., those with chronic heart or lung disease, weakened immune system)

There are two different RSV vaccines registered in Singapore (Abrysvo® and Arexvy). Only Abrysvo® is licensed for use in pregnant women. Please check with your healthcare professional about which vaccine is suitable for you. 

How should I take or use this medication?

The vaccine is given as a single injection into the muscle (intramuscular) of your upper arm.

What should I do if I forget to take or use this medication?

This is a one-time vaccination. If you miss your scheduled appointment, make a new appointment with your healthcare provider as soon as possible. 

What precautions should I take when taking or using this medication?

Inform your healthcare professional if:

• You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication
• You have any other medical conditions
• You have an infection with a high fever. If this is the case, then vaccination should be postponed. There is no need to delay vaccination for a minor infection or illness, such as a cold, but inform your healthcare professional first.
• You have bleeding problems or are on blood thinners
• You have a weakened immune system

What are some common side effects of this medication? ​

Common side effects include:

• Feeling faint after the vaccination
  • Sit for 15 minutes after receiving the vaccine to avoid fainting
• Pain, redness and swelling at the injection site
  • You may place a cold compress over the affected area for relief
  • You may take paracetamol for pain relief
• Headache, fever
  • You may take paracetamol to treat the headache or fever
• Muscle aches and fatigue
  • These side effects usually go away on its own

Please see a healthcare professional if these side effects do not get better or become worse.

What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately? 

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following: 

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
• Difficulty in breathing
• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

In adults 65 years and older; there have been reports of an increased risk of Guillain-Barré syndrome (a rare neurological disorder) during the 42 days following RSV vaccination. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Pins and needles feeling in the fingers, toes, ankles or wrists .
• Weakness in the arms or legs that may spread to other parts of your body.
• Difficulty with walking, facial movements, speaking, chewing or swallowing.