State Health Commissioner Issues Updated Statewide Standing Order To Allow Pharmacists To Administer RSV Vaccines for Older Adults and Pregnant People

Older New Yorkers Aged 75 and Over, Adults 50-74 With Underlying Medical Conditions and Pregnant People Encouraged to Get RSV Vaccine

ALBANY, N.Y. (August 18, 2025) – The New York State Department of Health today announced that State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald has updated the statewide standing order allowing pharmacists in New York State to administer the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccination to eligible individuals.

The updated order recommends a one-time RSV vaccination for:

  • Adults 75 years and older.
  • Adults 50-74 with underlying medical conditions.
  • Pregnant people between 32 through 36 weeks of pregnancy to help protect newborns during the first six months of life.

"Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common illness we see each fall and winter, and while many experience only mild, cold-like symptoms, it can be serious, especially for older adults and infants," State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. "This updated standing order now makes it easier for eligible New Yorkers to protect themselves and their loved one."

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), each year in the U.S., RSV leads to approximately 60,000-160,000 hospitalizations and 6,000-10,000 deaths among adults 65 years of age and older.

The RSV vaccine helps protect adults 50 years and older from RSV disease. Older adults are at greater risk for serious complications from RSV because immune systems weaken with age. In addition, certain underlying conditions, such as chronic heart, lung, kidney, or liver disease, may increase the risk of getting very sick from RSV. Individuals who are unsure whether their health conditions place them at higher risk should consult with their healthcare provider for personalized advice. Adults living in long-term care facilities may benefit from getting the vaccine.

All adults aged 75 and older are at greater risk for serious complications from RSV and are encouraged to get the vaccine (mRESVIA, Arexvy or Abrysvo). Infants under six months of age are protected against RSV if a pregnant person receives a single dose of the vaccine during 32 through 36 weeks of pregnancy during RSV season. There are two options for protection of infants against RSV: maternal vaccine for the pregnant person (Abrysvo) or preventive antibodies (nirsevimab or clesrovimab) given to the infant. Only one of these options is needed for most infants to be protected. If an infant does contract RSV, treatment options may include supportive care to manage symptoms, such as ensuring adequate hydration and oxygen support, and in more severe cases, hospitalization may be required for more intensive care.

RSV is a highly contagious virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms but can be serious, especially in infants and older adults. In adults, it can cause pneumonia, and infections of the bronchioles (bronchiolitis), and can exacerbate underlying chronic lung disease.

Health care providers of pregnant people should provide information on both maternal vaccines and infant monoclonal antibody products and consider patient preferences when determining whether to vaccinate the pregnant patient or not and rely on the administration of nirsevimab or clesrovimab to the infant after birth.

To protect against respiratory viruses, the Department of Health recommends precautions, including:

  • Staying up to date on all vaccines, including the RSV vaccine.
  • Washing hands often with soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Not coughing or sneezing into hands.
  • Staying home when sick or symptomatic.

More information about RSV is available here.