WHAT IS RSV?

RSV is a common and highly contagious respiratory virus, causing infections of the lungs and breathing passages.

WHO IS AT RISK OF RSV?

RSV can infect people of any age. It usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms but can also cause more serious respiratory illness, as well as make some illnesses and conditions worse in older adults.

Those who are at higher risk of severe outcomes from RSV include :

  • Older adults
  • Adults with underlying chronic conditions, including asthma, lung disease, heart disease, diabetes, and advanced liver or kidney diseases
  • Adults with weakened immune systems


In severe cases, RSV can lead to pneumonia and trigger new symptoms or worsen the symptoms of chronic illnesses, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and congestive heart failure. RSV complications could result in the need for hospital stays, as well as increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, or even death.

Older adults are at increased risk of severe outcomes from RSV because the immune system weakens with age, making it harder for the body to fight off infections.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF RSV?

RSV symptoms usually resemble those of the common cold. They can range from mild to severe and last up to 2 weeks.
Symptoms may include:

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Fever

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Cough

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Runny nose

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Headache

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Tiredness

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Wheezing

IS RSV CONTAGIOUS?

RSV is contagious and can spread through coughs and sneezes. People infected with RSV are usually contagious for 3 to 8 days. However, people with weakened immune systems can remain contagious for as long as 4 weeks — even after there are no visible symptoms.

Did you know that infants and young children under the age of 2 are also at an increased risk of severe outcomes from RSV? So adults infected with RSV should be mindful of the fact that they can pass on the infection to infants and young children through close contact.

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WHAT IS AREXVY?

AREXVY is a single-dose vaccine that helps to protect adults 60 years and older from RSV disease.

WHY AREXVY?
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WANT TO LEARN MORE?

Find answers to frequently asked questions about RSV and getting vaccinated.

FAQs

AREXVY is a vaccine that helps to protect adults 60 years of age and older from lower lung disease caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). 100% protection cannot be guaranteed. AREXVY is not indicated for the treatment of RSV and does not prevent or reduce the risk of complications. AREXVY should not be used if you are allergic to any ingredient in the vaccine. Adverse events may occur. Very common adverse events (≥10% of doses) reported in clinical trials were pain at the injection site, tiredness, headache, muscle pain (myalgia), and joint pain (arthralgia). Ask your healthcare professional if AREXVY is right for you. Full product information can be found at gsk.ca/arexvy/en. To report an adverse event, please call 1-800-387-7374.