RSV Vaccine Protects Seniors From Hospitalization
RSV Vaccine Update: Uptake, Seasonality, and Safety concerns
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Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory infection that can cause serious illness, notably in infants and older adults. The introduction of RSV vaccines represents a important step forward in protecting vulnerable populations. This article provides an update on the rollout of the RSV vaccination program in the UK, covering uptake rates, seasonality findings from the 2024-2025 season, and recent safety alerts.
RSV Vaccination Programme in the UK
The UK’s RSV vaccination programme began in autumn 2023, offering protection to both infants and older adults. Two main approaches are being used: a maternal vaccination programme and a direct vaccination programme for older adults.
The maternal programme utilises Abrysvo,a pre-F vaccine,administered to pregnant individuals from 28 weeks of gestation onwards. This provides passive immunity to the newborn, protecting them during their first few months of life when they are most vulnerable.
For older adults, the programme offers vaccination to those turning 75, alongside a catch-up campaign for individuals aged 75-79. This aims to reduce the burden of RSV-related hospitalisations and severe illness in this age group.
Vaccination Uptake Rates
Uptake of the RSV vaccine has been steadily increasing as the programme’s launch.By June 30th, 62.9% of eligible older adults had received the vaccine, a rise from 60.3% in march.This demonstrates growing acceptance and awareness of the benefits of RSV vaccination within this population.
The maternal programme has also seen significant uptake, with 54.7% of women who gave birth in March having received the RSV vaccine during pregnancy. Though, coverage varies considerably across different ethnic groups. Uptake is highest among women of Chinese ethnicity (73.3%) and lowest among Black and Black British caribbean women (26.4%). Addressing these disparities is crucial to ensure equitable protection against RSV for all newborns. Public health initiatives targeted at underrepresented communities are needed to improve vaccine confidence and access.
RSV Seasonality and 2024-2025 Season Findings
RSV activity typically begins in October, with the majority of cases occurring during the winter months. Bronchiolitis, the most common clinical presentation of RSV in infants, is almost always caused by the virus.Babies born in late summer or autumn are at the highest risk of hospitalisation due to RSV infection.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reviewed the 2024-2025 RSV season and found the following:
Start of Season: RSV activity commenced around mid-October across all UK nations.
Peak Activity: The peak of the season occurred between November 18th and December 8th (weeks 47-49).
Decline: Activity declined to baseline levels by late February (weeks 7-8 of 2025).
Surveillance data from around 300 GP practices in England revealed peak RSV positivity rates of:
Children under 5: 53.1% during week 46 (november 11-17).
* Adults aged 75 and over: 18.5% during week 49 (December 2-8).
Hospital emergency department data corroborated these findings, showing a peak in bronchiolitis cases among infants under one year of age in late November. This data highlights the importance of timely vaccination and preventative measures during the RSV season.
MHRA Safety Alert: Guillain-Barré Syndrome Risk
In July, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) issued a drug safety alert regarding a rare risk of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) following RSV vaccination.Healthcare professionals are advised to be vigilant for symptoms of GBS in recently vaccinated individuals.
GBS is a rare but serious autoimmune condition affecting the peripheral nervous system. Early symptoms include tingling, numbness, or pins and needles in the feet and hands, progressing to muscle weakness and difficulty with joint movement. More severe cases can lead to breathing difficulties, facial drooping, problems with swallowing or speech, and double vision. While GBS can be fatal in rare instances, most individuals recover with appropriate treatment.
The MHRA’s alert underscores the importance of ongoing safety monitoring and prompt medical attention for anyone experiencing potential GBS symptoms after RSV vaccination. The