RSV vaccination at OpenMed Warsaw and Płock
RSV, the respiratory syncytial virus, causes respiratory tract infections. In most healthy adults the infection is mild, but in older people and patients with certain chronic conditions it can lead to pneumonia, worsening of existing conditions and the need for hospital treatment.
RSV vaccination is recommended above all for older people and those in higher-risk groups. Pregnant women can also be vaccinated so that the antibodies passed on to the baby protect it in the first months of life.
At OpenMed in Warsaw and at OpenMed in Płock you can go through qualification for RSV vaccination and find out whether it is indicated in your situation.
Who should consider RSV vaccination?
According to the 2026 Polish Immunisation Programme, RSV vaccination is recommended for people aged 60 and over and for people aged 50-59 who are at increased risk of RSV disease.
Vaccination is particularly worth considering in the case of:
- age 60 or over,
- age 50-59 with factors that increase the risk of severe infection,
- chronic respiratory or cardiovascular conditions,
- immune disorders and other chronic conditions that increase susceptibility to severe infections,
- pregnancy, when the aim of vaccination is to protect the baby against RSV after birth.
The doctor decides on vaccination after taking into account age, health status, current medications and previous vaccinations.
Why does RSV matter for older people?
RSV is associated mainly with infections in young children, but the virus can also be a problem for seniors. With age, the immune response becomes less effective, and additional chronic conditions can increase the risk of complications.
A more severe course of infection is particularly relevant for people with chronic lung and cardiovascular conditions and for patients with weakened immunity. The infection can lead to inflammation of the lower respiratory tract and worsening of an existing condition.
The vaccination is intended to reduce the risk of RSV-related lower respiratory tract disease.
RSV vaccination in pregnancy
Vaccinating a pregnant woman has a different purpose from vaccinating an older person. In this case the protection is primarily for the baby.
After vaccination the mother's body produces antibodies against RSV. These cross the placenta to the foetus, so the baby receives protection before it is born. This matters in the first months of life, when RSV can cause severe lower respiratory tract infections.
The 2026 Polish Immunisation Programme recommends vaccination in pregnancy from the completed 27th to the 36th week of pregnancy. The exact timing of the vaccine is decided by the doctor during qualification, taking into account the stage of pregnancy and current recommendations.
What does RSV vaccination involve?
Medical qualification takes place before vaccination. The doctor asks about your current health, chronic conditions, medications, allergies and previous reactions to vaccinations.
The vaccine is given intramuscularly, usually in the arm. For the RSV vaccines currently used in adults, the primary vaccination consists of a single dose. Recommendations on any revaccination may be updated as new data emerge, so you should not plan yearly doses on your own as with the flu vaccination.
After vaccination you can return to normal activity if you feel well enough.
What reactions can occur after vaccination?
Mild, temporary reactions are the most common. There may be pain at the injection site, tiredness, headache, muscle or joint pain. Symptoms usually resolve within a few days.
If on the day of vaccination you have an acute infection with fever or feel significantly unwell, the appointment may be postponed. A mild infection is not always a contraindication, so the decision is made by the person qualifying you for vaccination.
Is RSV vaccination reimbursed?
In Poland, RSV vaccines are available with reimbursement for specific groups of patients. Under the current rules, people aged 65 and over can receive the reimbursed vaccine free of charge. For people aged 60-64, 50% reimbursement is available.
The vaccine intended for use in pregnancy to protect the infant is available free of charge to pregnant women under the current reimbursement rules.
Reimbursement of the vaccine does not automatically mean that every service connected with administering it is free at every facility. It is worth checking how the prescription is filled, the availability of the vaccine and the cost of the appointment or administration when booking.
Can RSV vaccination be combined with other vaccinations?
In adults, RSV vaccines can in certain situations be given at the same appointment as other vaccines. The decision, however, depends on the type of vaccines, the patient's age and health status.
If you are also planning a flu, COVID-19, pneumococcal or other vaccination recommended for adults, mention this during qualification. The doctor will decide whether they can be given at one appointment or whether it is better to separate the dates.
RSV vaccination - FAQ
In the 2026 Polish Immunisation Programme, vaccination is recommended for people aged 60 and over, people aged 50-59 at increased risk of RSV disease, and pregnant women in order to protect the infant.
Yes. Under the current reimbursement rules, RSV vaccines are available free of charge to people aged 65 and over once the reimbursement conditions are met.
Yes. Antibodies produced by the mother's body cross the placenta and give the baby passive protection in the first months of life, when the risk of a more severe course of RSV infection is particularly significant.
At present, RSV vaccination should not be treated like the yearly flu vaccination. The primary vaccination for adults consists of one dose, and recommendations on any repeat dose depend on current data and guidance.
In certain situations this is possible. During qualification you should mention any planned vaccinations so that the doctor can decide on the appropriate way to give them.