Primary Care in Astoria

Protect Against Respiratory Syncytial Virus with RSV Vaccines at mediDental care in Astoria

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common but potentially serious respiratory illness that affects people of all ages—especially infants, babies, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals, who are particularly vulnerable to severe RSV infection. Certain risk factors, such as age, chronic health conditions, and weakened immune systems, increase susceptibility to severe RSV illness. At mediDental care, we provide RSV vaccines as part of our commitment to preventive primary care in Astoria, helping you and your loved ones stay healthy during RSV season and beyond by focusing on effective prevention strategies.

Whether you’re a parent protecting a newborn or a senior managing chronic conditions, we’re here to guide you with personalized vaccine recommendations and expert care.

What Is RSV?

RSV is a contagious respiratory virus that infects the lungs and breathing passages. RSV disease can cause severe illness, especially in infants, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. It is one of the most common causes of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in children under 1 year and can be dangerous for older adults with weakened immune systems.

Symptoms of RSV include:

• Cold-like symptoms
• Runny nose
• Decreased appetite
• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Fever
• Wheezing

Common Symptoms:

• Runny nose
• Coughing and sneezing
• Fever
• Decreased appetite
• Wheezing or difficulty breathing (in severe cases)

Most people recover in a week or two, but some develop serious complications that require hospitalization.

Why RSV Vaccination Matters

Recent advancements in medicine have made RSV vaccines available for the first time for certain groups. The primary goal of RSV vaccination is the prevention of RSV disease, particularly in vulnerable populations. These vaccines can significantly reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death—especially in high-risk populations.

Benefits of RSV Vaccination:

• Prevent severe RSV-related illness
• Reduce hospitalizations and medical visits
• Protect newborns through maternal immunization
• Lower the burden on healthcare systems during respiratory illness season

Who Should Get the RSV Vaccine?

As of the latest CDC recommendations, RSV vaccines are approved and advised for eligible older adults, particularly those at increased risk of severe disease. The CDC recommends RSV vaccination for these groups based on age and underlying health conditions.

• Adults aged 60 years and older, especially those with increased risk factors such as chronic medical conditions
• Individuals with compromised immune systems
• Other groups as determined by healthcare providers based on increased risk

1. Adults Ages 60 and Older

• Especially those with:
  • Chronic heart or lung disease
  • Chronic medical conditions
  • Diabetes
  • Compromised immune systems
  • Older adults living in nursing homes

2. Pregnant Individuals

• Recommended at 32–36 weeks of gestational age (pregnancy), during September through January
• Helps protect newborns during their first months of life

3. Infants and Young Children

• While infants don’t receive RSV vaccines directly, monoclonal antibody treatment (nirsevimab) may be recommended to prevent RSV during peak season. Protecting babies from birth is crucial, as they are especially vulnerable to severe RSV-related illnesses. Monoclonal antibody treatment can help reduce the need for medical care by decreasing the risk of severe infections and hospitalizations in high-risk infants.

Types of RSV Vaccines Available

We carry the most up-to-date RSV vaccines approved by the FDA and recommended by the CDC. There are three RSV vaccines available, each designed for different age groups, including older adults and infants. These RSV vaccines can be administered alongside other vaccines, such as flu, shingles, or pneumococcal vaccines, during the same appointment. All available RSV vaccines have undergone rigorous regulatory review to ensure vaccine safety and are continuously monitored for side effects.

Adult RSV Vaccines:

• Arexvy (GSK)
• Abrysvo (Pfizer)
• Both are single-dose injections recommended for eligible adults

Maternal RSV Vaccine:

• Abrysvo (Pfizer) is approved for use in pregnancy
• Given to expectant mothers during late pregnancy to protect newborns from RSV

We’ll determine the best timing and formulation based on your age, health conditions, and vaccination needs.

When Is the Best Time to Get Vaccinated for RSV?

RSV season typically runs from late summer through early spring, with peaks in late fall and winter. The best time to get vaccinated is during late summer and early fall, just before RSV seasons begin, to ensure optimal protection as outbreaks recur each year.

Recent data from the first RSV season after vaccine approval (2023–2024) show strong vaccine effectiveness. Ongoing studies are also tracking how well the vaccine protects over three RSV seasons to assess long-term efficacy.

Timing Recommendations:

• Adults 60+: One dose prior to the RSV season (ideally in September or October)
• Pregnant women: Between 32–36 weeks gestation during RSV season
• Infants: May receive antibody protection shortly before or during RSV season if eligible

What to Expect During Your RSV Vaccination Visit

Getting your RSV vaccine at mediDental care is simple and efficient. Each person is assessed individually for vaccine eligibility to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Our step-by-step process:

1. Schedule your appointment online or by phone.
2. Arrive at our clinic at your scheduled time.
3. Doctors review each patient's health status and medical history before vaccination to provide personalized care.
4. Receive your RSV vaccine from our trained healthcare professionals.
5. Stay for a short observation period to monitor for any immediate side effects.

Our team is dedicated to making sure every patient receives the care and attention they need throughout the vaccination process.

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Initial health assessment and review of your eligibility
2. Vaccine education: What to expect, benefits, and potential side effects
3. Administration of the vaccine via intramuscular injection
4. Short monitoring period for rare allergic reactions
5. Documentation and follow-up guidance

Common Side Effects:

The most common side effects include:

• Pain at the injection site or soreness or redness at the injection site
• Fatigue or headache
• Low-grade fever
• Muscle pain
• Severe allergic reaction (rare)

These side effects are typically mild and resolve within a day or two.

RSV vs. Flu vs. COVID-19: Know the Differences

Respiratory illnesses can share similar symptoms. RSV, influenza, and COVID-19 are all examples of respiratory infections that can affect people of all ages, especially vulnerable populations.

Here’s how RSV compares to other seasonal viruses:

Symptom	RSV	Influenza	COVID-19
Fever	Common	Common	Common
Cough	Common	Common	Common
Nasal Congestion	Common	Sometimes	Common
Wheezing	More common	Rare	Rare
Body Aches	Sometimes	Common	Common
Loss of Taste	Rare	Rare	Common

We offer combined flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccine appointments when possible for added convenience.

RSV in Children: What Parents Should Know

While most children recover from RSV on their own, babies—especially those born prematurely or with chronic health issues—are at higher risk of severe RSV infections from birth.

• Maternal vaccination provides protection to babies from birth, helping to reduce the risk of severe RSV infections.

Pediatric RSV Protection:

• Nirsevimab: A long-acting monoclonal antibody given as a single injection to protect high-risk infants during RSV season
• Maternal vaccination: Passes protective antibodies to the baby in utero
• Emphasizing hand hygiene, breastfeeding, and avoiding sick contacts also helps

RSV in Older Adults: Higher Risks, Higher Stakes

Adults over 60 account for a significant portion of RSV-related hospitalizations and have an increased risk of severe outcomes from RSV, including severe RSV disease. Risk factors for severe RSV disease in older adults include chronic conditions such as COPD, heart failure, diabetes, and immunocompromising conditions. RSV infection in this age group can lead to life-threatening complications.

Complications can include pneumonia, bronchiolitis, and lower respiratory tract disease.

Complications May Include:

• Pneumonia
• Exacerbation of chronic respiratory conditions
• Hospital admission and prolonged recovery

Vaccination dramatically reduces the risk of these outcomes.

Why Choose mediDental care for RSV Vaccines in Astoria?

• Experienced primary care team knowledgeable about respiratory illnesses
• Quick, same-day scheduling and walk-in availability
• Bilingual and inclusive care for diverse patients
• Central Astoria location with easy transit access
• Personalized vaccination plans based on your age and health profile

Our team stays up to date with CDC and NYC guidelines to ensure the safest and most effective care.

Book Your RSV Vaccine Appointment in Astoria Today

Protect your health and your family’s health with an RSV vaccine at mediDental care. Whether you’re over 60, expecting a baby, or caring for a newborn, we’re here to help you prevent serious illness during RSV season.

📍 Located in Astoria, Queens
📞 Call us or book your appointment online

Stay protected, stay informed—with mediDental care, your go-to provider for RSV vaccines and primary care in Astoria.