Yes, there is a vaccine that can prevent the development of a specific viral bronchitis. This is called the RSV vaccine, which protects against the respiratory syncytial virus. This virus can cause lower respiratory infections such as bronchitis, so getting the vaccine can lower the risk of developing this condition.
The RSV virus can also cause conditions such as pneumonia, especially in:
- older adults
- babies and infants
- people with weaker immune systems
Other factors that can increase your risk of severe illness include:
- chronic heart or lung disease
- living in a nursing home
- having other medical conditions
- taking medications that affect the immune system, like steroids or chemotherapy
Healthcare professionals also recommend getting the RSV vaccine during pregnancy, usually after 28 weeks of gestation. This is to protect the baby from the virus when they’re born, as they’re at risk of developing more serious conditions.
Side effects of the RSV vaccine are usually mild, and they typically include the following:
You may experience some or all of these side effects, or you may not experience any of them. People who have reacted to other vaccines are more likely to experience side effects from this one.
The symptoms of bronchitis can be similar to other respiratory conditions, such as the cold and the flu. They include:
- a cough
- chest pain when coughing
- shortness of breath
- a sore throat
- a runny nose
- a high temperature
Respiratory viruses typically cause bronchitis, so the RSV vaccine could lower the risk of those.
Contact a doctor if you think you have bronchitis or would like to know more about the RSV vaccine.