Public Health now carries RSV vaccine

Appointments recommended for those 60 years and older

Media Contact: Grace Franklin, Public Health Director, (970) 728-4289, gracef@sanmiguelcountyco.gov

(November 2, 2023) — San Miguel County, Colorado — San Miguel County’s Public Health Department has announced that it is now carrying the Abrysvo RSV vaccine. The RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) vaccine is available to anyone 60 years and older or pregnant individuals at 32 to 36 weeks of gestational age.

RSV, is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Most people recover in a week or two, but RSV can be serious. Infants and older adults are more likely to develop severe RSV and need hospitalization. The vaccine helps prevent lower respiratory disease from RSV, which annually in the U.S. has led to: 2.1 million outpatient (non-hospitalization) visits among children younger than 5 years old; 58,000-80,000 hospitalizations among children younger than 5 years old; 60,000-160,000 hospitalizations among adults 65 years and older; 6,000-10,000 deaths among adults 65 years and older; 100–300 deaths in children younger than 5 years old.

“It is well worth considering receiving this vaccine, particularly for those 60 years of age and older,” said Public Health Director, Grace Franklin. “Though it will incur a steep out-of-pocket cost, some regional pharmacies in Durango and Montrose can provide this vaccine at no cost to people with Medicare Part D.”

Private insurance does not currently cover the cost of this vaccine. To receive the vaccine at Public Health it would be an out-of-pocket cost of $300.

To make an appointment call at 970-728-4289 or email publichealth@sanmiguelcountyco.gov.