09/23/2026
RSV vaccines are arriving soon. Protect yourself and your loved ones this season. Call the clinic to book your appointment 250-420-2700 or try our NEW online booking for RSV vaccines only.
What is respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection?
Respiratory syncytial virus is a common virus that infects the lungs and airways. It usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Symptoms of RSV include a runny or stuffy nose, coughing, wheezing, fever, sore throat and loss of appetite.
RSV infection can result in more serious illnesses such as bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways of the lungs) and pneumonia (lung infections). It can also lead to worsening of other medical conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Infants and children under 2 years of age, older adults and those with underlying medical conditions are most at risk of severe disease that may require hospitalization. Severe RSV disease can be fatal.
How is RSV infection spread?
RSV is spread by coughing, sneezing or close face-to-face contact. The virus can also spread when you touch tiny droplets from a cough or sneeze on another person or object, and then touch your eyes, mouth or nose before washing your hands.
What are the RSV vaccines?
There are 3 Health Canada approved RSV vaccines that protect against infection from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The vaccines are either protein subunit vaccines (Abrysvo® and Arexvy®) or an mRNA vaccine (mResvia®).
Who should get an RSV vaccine?
RSV vaccine for older adults: Beginning in fall 2026, B.C. is introducing a time-limited RSV vaccine program for older adults. One dose of an RSV vaccine (mResvia®) is recommended and free for:
• Adults 75 years of age and older
• Indigenous (First Nations, Métis and Inuit) people 60 years of age and older
Indigenous people may be at increased risk of serious illness from RSV due to health inequities from settler colonialism.
Only one dose of vaccine is recommended for protection. People who previously received a dose of any RSV vaccine are not eligible for a dose of mResvia®.
An RSV vaccine is recommended, but not provided free, for people at high risk of severe disease, including:
• Adults 65 to 74 years of age with certain chronic health conditions
• Those 18 years of age and older who:
o Are residents of nursing homes and other chronic care facilities
o Had a lung transplant
o Had a stem-cell transplant
o Are on home oxygen or require oxygen therapy
o Are receiving dialysis
RSV vaccines in pregnancy: One RSV vaccine, Abrysvo®, is recommended, but not provided free, for people who are pregnant to protect their baby from RSV disease. The vaccine should be given between 28 to 36 weeks of pregnancy. It’s important to get the vaccine at least 2 weeks before giving birth to allow protective antibodies to pass to the baby.
If you are not eligible for a free RSV vaccine, you can buy one from most pharmacies and travel clinics. Some health insurance plans may cover the cost of the vaccine. Check with your provider.
Info on RSV vaccine to protect older adults and high-risk groups