Quick Answer: RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is a common respiratory virus that can lead to serious illness, pneumonia, and hospitalization in older adults. The CDC recommends the RSV vaccine for all adults 75 and older, and for adults 50–74 who have certain chronic health conditions or an increased risk of severe illness, given as a single dose rather than an annual shot. Southern Village Pharmacy in Chapel Hill, NC offers the RSV vaccine by appointment—call 919-240-4084 with questions.
What Is RSV, and Why Is It a Big Deal for Adults?
RSV, short for respiratory syncytial virus, is a common respiratory virus that circulates every fall and winter alongside flu and COVID-19. Most people think of it as a childhood illness, but RSV infects adults too, and for older adults it can turn into something more serious than a typical cold.
Because the RSV vaccine is newer—it was first approved in 2023—many patients haven't heard much about it yet, especially compared to flu and COVID-19 shots. That's completely understandable, and our pharmacists are happy to explain what it does without any pressure.
Why RSV Gets More Dangerous As We Age
In healthy adults, RSV often causes symptoms similar to a common cold: runny nose, cough, mild fever, and fatigue. But as we age, our immune systems become less efficient at fighting off respiratory infections, and RSV can move deeper into the lungs—leading to pneumonia, worsening of existing heart or lung conditions, or hospitalization.
This is especially true for adults with chronic heart or lung disease, a weakened immune system, or certain other underlying conditions, as well as those living in nursing homes. The RSV vaccine is designed to reduce the chance of that kind of severe outcome, not just a milder case of the sniffles.
Who Should Get the RSV Vaccine?
Current CDC guidance recommends the RSV vaccine for all adults age 75 and older, since risk of severe illness rises steadily with age. For adults 50–74, the CDC recommends it for those with an increased risk of severe RSV illness—including chronic heart or lung disease, a weakened immune system, certain other underlying conditions, or residence in a nursing home—through a conversation with a healthcare provider known as shared clinical decision-making.
In plain terms: if you're 75 or older, this vaccine is routinely recommended for you. If you're 50–74 with a chronic condition, it's worth a short conversation with one of our pharmacists to see if it fits your health history.
Serving Chapel Hill and Surrounding Communities
Southern Village Pharmacy has been a locally owned, independent pharmacy in Chapel Hill since 2013, and we're proud to serve patients throughout Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Pittsboro, Hillsborough, Durham, Mebane, Fearrington Village, and Apex, NC. Wherever you're coming from in the Triangle, our licensed pharmacists are ready to get you protected before RSV season picks up in the community.
Ready to get your RSV vaccine? Schedule your appointment online.
What to Expect: A Single Dose, Not an Annual Shot
Unlike the flu vaccine, RSV vaccination is currently given as a single dose, and guidance does not call for a repeat dose the following year for most patients, since protection is expected to last across more than one season. Once you and your pharmacist decide it's right for you, you likely won't need to think about it again next fall.
The best time to get it is late summer through early fall, before RSV typically starts spreading locally, so protection is in place when you need it. A few RSV vaccine options exist, and our pharmacists can talk you through what's in stock and appropriate for you.
Common Questions and Concerns
Will my insurance cover it?
Most vaccines, including the RSV vaccine, are covered by insurance for eligible patients, including Medicare Part B or Part D depending on your plan. Coverage can vary, so we recommend calling us at 919-240-4084 and we'll help confirm it before your visit.
Does it hurt, and are there side effects?
The RSV vaccine is a quick shot in the arm, just like a flu or COVID-19 vaccine. Most people notice only mild, short-lived soreness at the injection site, with some mild fatigue or muscle aches for a day or so—similar to other routine vaccines.
Do I need an appointment?
Yes. We ask that you schedule your RSV vaccine appointment online so we can have everything ready when you arrive. Appointments are available Monday through Friday 9:00am–1:00pm or Saturday 2:00pm–4:00pm.
Why Neighbors Trust Southern Village Pharmacy
Southern Village Pharmacy has served Chapel Hill since 2013, and readers of Chapel Hill Magazine have voted us Best Pharmacy in Chapel Hill for 10 years running as of 2026. We hold a 4.8-star rating on Google, and every vaccine we give is administered by a licensed pharmacist who takes time to answer your questions.
Not sure if the RSV vaccine is right for you? That's a good reason to stop by—we'd rather talk it through than have you guess.
A note on timing: RSV season ramps up in fall and winter, so getting vaccinated in late summer or early fall gives your body time to build protection first.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the RSV vaccine and who needs it?
The RSV vaccine helps protect against respiratory syncytial virus, a common respiratory illness that can cause serious complications like pneumonia in older adults. It's recommended for all adults 75 and older, and for adults 50–74 with certain chronic conditions or an increased risk of severe illness.
Is the RSV vaccine new?
Yes. The first RSV vaccines for adults were approved in 2023, which is why many patients haven't heard much about it compared to flu or COVID-19 vaccines. It's a genuinely newer tool for preventing serious respiratory illness in older adults.
Do I need to get the RSV vaccine every year like the flu shot?
No. It's currently given as a single dose rather than an annual shot, since protection is expected to last more than one season. Your pharmacist can let you know if future guidance changes.
Can I get the RSV vaccine at the same time as my flu or COVID-19 shot?
Many patients get multiple vaccines in one visit. Ask one of our pharmacists when you come in and we'll walk you through what makes sense for your health history.
Does Southern Village Pharmacy serve patients outside Chapel Hill?
Yes. While we're located at 300 Market Street in Chapel Hill, we regularly serve patients from Carrboro, Pittsboro, Hillsborough, Durham, Mebane, Fearrington Village, and Apex, NC.
How much does the RSV vaccine cost?
Most vaccines, including the RSV vaccine, are covered by insurance, including Medicare Part B or Part D for eligible patients depending on your plan. Call 919-240-4084 and we can help confirm coverage before you come in.
Do I need an appointment to get the RSV vaccine?
Yes. Please schedule your appointment online: Monday through Friday 9:00am–1:00pm or Saturday 2:00pm–4:00pm.
Questions about the RSV vaccine? Call 919-240-4084 or email info@southernvillageRx.com—we're happy to help.
Protect yourself from RSV this season. Southern Village Pharmacy makes it easy.
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