Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can pose a serious health risk for older adults, particularly those living in congregate housing such as assisted living communities and nursing homes. New research offers encouraging evidence that vaccination may significantly reduce some of the most serious RSV-associated outcomes in this population. 

A large study examined RSV vaccine effectiveness among nearly 600,000 Medicare beneficiaries age 65 and older residing in U.S. nursing homes during the 2023–2024 respiratory virus season—the first season RSV vaccines were available. 

The findings provide senior care teams with valuable new evidence as they prepare for respiratory virus season and work to protect residents at greatest risk. 

Significant Reduction in RSV-Associated Hospitalizations 

Researchers found that RSV vaccination was associated with 73% effectiveness against RSV-associated hospitalization. 

The results were particularly notable among some of the populations nursing homes serve most frequently. Vaccine effectiveness against RSV-associated hospitalization was: 

• 75% among adults age 75 and older 
• 80% among long-stay nursing home residents 
• 67% among short-stay residents 
• 60% among adults ages 65–74 

Researchers also examined several secondary outcomes and found vaccine effectiveness of: 

• 56% against RSV-associated death 
• 59% against severe RSV-associated outcomes, including ICU or critical care admission, ventilator use or RSV-associated death 
• 66% against RSV-associated thromboembolic events 

The study included 597,430 Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries, 66% of whom were women, with a median age of 82. 

Why the Findings Matter for Senior Care 

Older adults are at increased risk of serious illness from respiratory infections, and residents in long-term care settings often have additional vulnerabilities related to age, chronic conditions and overall health status. 

For care teams, preventing serious illness isn't only about avoiding infection. Reducing the likelihood of hospitalization and other severe outcomes can help protect residents from the additional risks and disruption associated with acute-care transfers. 

The study provides important real-world evidence specific to nursing home residents—an important distinction when evaluating research that can help inform clinical decision-making in senior care. 

Turning Evidence into Preparation 

As respiratory virus season approaches, the findings reinforce the importance of including RSV in broader infection prevention and immunization planning. 

For nursing home leaders and clinical teams, this is an opportunity to: 

• Review current RSV vaccination policies and protocols 
• Identify residents who may be eligible for vaccination based on current clinical recommendations 
• Educate residents, families, and staff about RSV risks and vaccination 
• Coordinate with pharmacy and clinical partners to support timely access to recommended vaccines 
• Continue monitoring updated public health guidance throughout respiratory virus season 

Vaccination is one component of a broader infection prevention strategy, but this large nursing home study adds meaningful evidence about its potential role in reducing serious RSV-associated outcomes. 

For senior care teams preparing for the months ahead, the takeaway is straightforward: RSV deserves a place in respiratory season planning—and the latest evidence provides another reason to make that conversation a priority.