Flu and RSV Prevention for Seniors

Medically reviewed by Ronald Schwartz, MD | Masonicare

Flu and RSV prevention for seniors involves more than getting vaccinated. Learn which vaccines are recommended for older adults, how to reduce exposure to respiratory viruses, recognize symptoms early, and protect your health throughout respiratory illness season.

Influenza (flu) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can affect people of any age, but older adults face a greater risk of serious illness and complications. Both respiratory viruses can lead to pneumonia and hospitalization and may worsen existing health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and chronic lung disease.

Vaccination is an important first line of defense, but it is only one part of a comprehensive prevention strategy. Older adults can also help reduce their risk by practicing good hygiene, improving indoor air, taking extra precautions when respiratory illnesses are prevalent, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, and seeking medical care promptly when symptoms develop.

Here are 10 ways to help protect yourself against flu and RSV:

1. Stay Up to Date on Flu and RSV Vaccines

Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of serious illness from respiratory viruses.

Flu Vaccine

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends an annual flu vaccine for nearly everyone six months and older. Adults age 65 and older are at increased risk of serious flu complications. For this age group, the CDC preferentially recommends three flu vaccines over standard-dose, unadjuvanted vaccines:

High-dose inactivated flu vaccine (Fluzone High-Dose)
Recombinant flu vaccine (Flublok)
Adjuvanted inactivated flu vaccine (Fluad)

These formulations are designed to produce a stronger immune response or improve protection in older adults. If none of the preferred vaccines are available, getting another age-appropriate flu vaccine is better than delaying vaccination.

RSV Vaccine

The CDC recommends a single dose of RSV vaccine for:

All adults age 75 and older
Adults ages 50–74 who are at increased risk of severe RSV illness

Risk factors include chronic heart or lung disease, a weakened immune system, certain other underlying medical conditions, and living in a nursing home.

Three RSV vaccines are currently FDA-approved for adults: Arexvy, mResvia, and Abrysvo. The CDC does not currently recommend one over another.

An important distinction: The RSV vaccine is not an annual vaccine. If you have already received an RSV vaccine, you do not need another dose at this time.

Talk with your healthcare provider about which vaccines are appropriate for you, particularly if you have underlying health conditions.

Learn more:

2. Make Handwashing a Daily Habit

Your hands touch countless surfaces throughout the day, including door handles, shopping carts, phones, and shared equipment. Viruses can spread when you touch contaminated surfaces and then touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. Washing or sanitizing your hands regularly can help reduce your exposure to germs.

Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating, after using the restroom and after returning home from public places.

When soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol.

3. Be Mindful of Crowded Indoor Spaces

Flu and RSV primarily spread through respiratory particles released when infected people breathe, talk, cough, or sneeze.

During periods of increased respiratory virus activity, consider limiting time in crowded indoor spaces. If you attend a large gathering, choose a well-ventilated location and consider wearing a well-fitting mask, particularly if you have underlying health conditions.

You don't have to stop enjoying social activities. A few thoughtful precautions can help you participate more safely.

4. Improve Indoor Air Quality

Good indoor air quality is an often-overlooked prevention strategy.

Open windows when weather permits, use exhaust fans and consider a portable HEPA air purifier in frequently used rooms. When practical, consider gathering outdoors rather than in enclosed spaces.

Improving ventilation helps reduce the concentration of airborne respiratory virus particles.

5. Support Your Immune System With Good Nutrition

No particular food or supplement can guarantee protection against flu or RSV. However, good nutrition supports your body's ability to maintain normal immune function.

Choose a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Drink water regularly throughout the day, even when you don't feel thirsty.

If you have a limited appetite, difficulty swallowing, or dietary restrictions, speak with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian about meeting your nutritional needs.

6. Prioritize Sleep and Regular Physical Activity

Sleep and regular physical activity are important components of healthy aging and immune health.

Most adults benefit from seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Regular movement, including walking, stretching, balance exercises, and strength training, also supports overall health and well-being.

Choose activities appropriate for your abilities and medical conditions. Consistency is more important than intensity.

7. Avoid Close Contact With People Who Are Sick

If a family member, friend or caregiver has a cough, fever, runny nose or other respiratory symptoms, consider postponing close contact until they are feeling better.

If an in-person visit is necessary, improve ventilation, maintain some distance, and consider wearing a well-fitting mask.

Likewise, if you aren't feeling well, stay home when possible. Protecting others is just as important as protecting yourself.

8. Clean Frequently Touched Surfaces

While respiratory viruses primarily spread through the air, contaminated surfaces can also contribute to transmission.

Regularly clean frequently touched items such as phones, remote controls, countertops, light switches, and door handles. If you share living spaces with others, make cleaning commonly used surfaces part of your routine.

9. Recognize Flu and RSV Symptoms and Seek Medical Attention Early

Flu and RSV can have similar symptoms, making it difficult to distinguish between the two without testing.

Common flu symptoms can include:

Fever or chills
Muscle aches or headaches
Cough
Sore throat
Fatigue or weakness
Runny or stuffy nose

Common RSV symptoms can include:

Runny nose or congestion
Coughing
Sneezing
Fever
Wheezing
Shortness of breath

One important consideration for older adults: RSV does not always cause a fever. Symptoms may initially seem mild before progressing to a more serious respiratory infection.

If you develop respiratory symptoms, contact your healthcare provider promptly. Early treatment matters. Antiviral medications can help treat influenza and work best when started within 48 hours of symptom onset. Treatment may still be beneficial later, especially for people at increased risk of complications.

There are currently no routinely recommended antiviral medications for RSV in most adults, but medical evaluation and supportive treatment can be important.

Seek emergency medical attention for difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, new confusion, or bluish or grayish lips or skin.

10. Have a Prevention Plan Before You Get Sick

Don't wait until you are feeling ill to think about what you might need.

Talk with your healthcare provider about your individual risk factors, recommended vaccinations, and what to do if you develop symptoms.

Keep a current list of your medications, medical conditions, and emergency contacts. If you live alone, identify someone who can check on you if you become sick.

Knowing where to obtain testing and how to access medical care can make a difference when time matters.

Protecting Yourself From Flu and RSV Takes More Than One Step

Flu and RSV are not inevitable parts of aging. Staying healthy doesn't mean putting your life on hold or avoiding the activities and people you enjoy.

Vaccination, good hygiene, cleaner indoor air, proper nutrition, adequate sleep, and early attention to symptoms all work together to help reduce your risk.

The goal isn't to live in fear of getting sick. It's to make informed choices that help you stay healthy, independent and connected to the people and activities you enjoy.

Additional information: Visit the CDC Respiratory Illness Prevention Guidance for additional recommendations on protecting yourself and others.

Frequently Asked Questions About Flu and RSV in Older Adults

Which flu and RSV vaccines are recommended for adults age 65 and older?

Adults age 65 and older should receive an annual flu vaccine. The CDC preferentially recommends high-dose, recombinant, or adjuvanted flu vaccines for this age group, such as Fluzone High-Dose, Flublok, or Fluad. Adults 75 and older should receive one dose of an RSV vaccine. Adults ages 50–74 with certain risk factors should also receive one RSV vaccine dose. There are three RSV vaccines that are currently FDA-approved for adults: Arexvy, mResvia, and Abrysvo. At the time of publication, the CDC does not recommend one over another.

Does the RSV vaccine need to be given every year?

No. The RSV vaccine is not currently an annual vaccine. The CDC recommends a single dose for eligible adults, and people who have already received an RSV vaccine do not currently need another dose.

Can you get the flu and RSV at the same time?

Yes. It is possible to become infected with more than one respiratory virus at the same time. Having one infection does not protect you against another.

How can seniors reduce their risk of RSV without a vaccine?

Older adults can help reduce their risk by practicing good hand hygiene, improving indoor air, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, and taking additional precautions such as wearing a well-fitting mask when respiratory illnesses are spreading or in higher-risk settings.

When should you contact a doctor about flu or RSV symptoms?

Older adults should contact a healthcare provider promptly when respiratory symptoms develop, particularly if they have underlying medical conditions or other risk factors for serious illness. Early evaluation is especially important for suspected flu because antiviral treatment provides the greatest benefit when started soon after symptoms begin.

Seek immediate medical attention for serious symptoms such as difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, sudden confusion, severe weakness, dehydration, or rapidly worsening symptoms.

Supporting Healthy Aging at Masonicare

Preventive care is an important part of healthy aging. Masonicare provides a broad continuum of care designed to support the health, independence, and quality of life of seniors throughout Connecticut. Explore our health and wellness services to learn more about how Masonicare helps older adults live better, longer.

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Medical Disclaimer: This article is intended for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice. Vaccine recommendations can change. Consult your healthcare provider for guidance based on your age, health history and current CDC recommendations.

Medical Review: Ronald Schwartz, MD, Masonicare