RSV Hospitalization Burden in Older Adults: European Analysis
RSV Immunisation: A Thorough Guide for Infants and Older Adults
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Respiratory syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. However, for infants and older adults, RSV can lead to severe illness, requiring hospitalisation and, in some cases, proving fatal. Fortunately, significant advancements have been made in protecting vulnerable populations through immunisation. This article provides a comprehensive overview of RSV, the new immunisation programmes, and what you need to know to safeguard your health and the health of your loved ones.
Understanding RSV: Who is at Risk?
RSV is highly contagious and spreads through close contact,much like the common cold. While most people experience mild symptoms, certain groups are at substantially higher risk of severe complications:
Infants: Especially those under six months old, premature babies, and infants with underlying health conditions like congenital heart disease or chronic lung disease.
Older Adults: Individuals aged 60 years and older are more susceptible to severe RSV illness, especially those with chronic medical conditions such as heart or lung disease, diabetes, or a weakened immune system.
Individuals with Compromised Immune Systems: People undergoing cancer treatment or with other conditions that suppress the immune system.Symptoms of RSV can include:
Runny nose
Decreased appetite
Cough
Sneezing
Fever
Wheezing
In severe cases, RSV can lead to bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lungs) and pneumonia.
New RSV immunisation Programmes: A Breakthrough in Protection
For decades, there was no effective way to prevent RSV infection. However, recent breakthroughs have led to the development of new immunisation strategies, offering a crucial layer of protection for those most vulnerable. These programmes differ based on age group:
RSV Immunisation for Infants
two primary approaches are now available for protecting infants against RSV:
- Maternal Immunisation: A single dose of RSV vaccine is given to pregnant individuals between 32 and 36 weeks of gestation. This stimulates the mother’s immune system to produce antibodies that are passed on to the baby, providing protection during the first few months of life – a critical period when infants are most vulnerable.
- Nirsevimab (Beyfortus): This is a monoclonal antibody administered as a single intramuscular injection to all infants under 8 months of age during their first RSV season.For some infants born during the transition between RSV seasons,a dose can be given up to 12 months of age. Nirsevimab provides immediate and direct antibody protection.
RSV Immunisation for Older Adults
Older adults can now benefit from an RSV vaccine designed to boost their immune response and reduce the risk of severe illness. The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) recommends offering RSV vaccination to:
Adults aged 60 years and over.
* Individuals with certain underlying health conditions that increase their risk of severe RSV disease.
These vaccines work by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies that fight off the RSV virus.Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) immunisation programme for infants and older adults: JCVI full statement, 11 September 2023.
Understanding the Science Behind the Vaccines
The RSV vaccines utilise different technologies to achieve protection.Maternal vaccines leverage the power of the mother’s immune system to pass on antibodies,while nirsevimab provides direct antibody delivery.For older adults, vaccines stimulate the body’s own immune response, creating long-term protection. These advancements