While many people who contract respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) recover quickly, RSV can cause severe illness in infants, young children, and adults over 65 years old.

For this reason, since 2023, Medicare beneficiaries can get vaccinated against RSV. These vaccines fall under the coverage of Medicare Part D, which primarily covers prescription drugs.

RSV is a common virus. It causes mild to severe respiratory infections, with symptoms like a runny nose and cough.

That said, it can turn into a serious illness in some cases. It is a leading cause of respiratory infections, such as pneumonia and bronchitis, in certain populations, including older adults.

As of 2023, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) made a new decision to expand the coverage of essential vaccines.

As part of this law, Medicare can now cover numerous vaccines advised as medically necessary by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The out-of-pocket cost for the RSV vaccine varies depending on the provider. It typically ranges around $300.

Are RSV vaccines free with Medicare?

Because the vaccine is covered by Part D, a person over 60 years old can get vaccinated without a copay and without first covering their plan deductible.

That said, most Part D plans have a monthly premium that a person has to pay to remain covered. Because Part D plans are privately managed, the premium also varies by plan. The national base beneficiary premium is $36.78 in 2025.

In addition, if a person chooses to enroll in a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan with drug coverage, they will not need to enroll in a separate Part D plan. Part C plans are also privately managed.

According to CMS, the average monthly premium for Part C plans is around $17.00 in 2025.

At present, three RSV vaccines are approved for adults over 60 years old. They are:

  • Arexvy (protein subunit), manufactured by GSK
  • Abrysvo (protein subunit), manufactured by Pfizer
  • mResvia (mRNA), manufactured by Moderna

These vaccines prompt a person’s immune system to generate antibodies against RSV. Generally, a person requires only one dose.

Some vaccines are covered as preventive vaccines by Medicare Part B, while others by Part D.

For those covered by Part D, coverage is available if the vaccine is medically necessary. For this reason, newly approved vaccines may not be covered immediately.

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