RSV Vaccination
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) in the United States recently recommended administering a vaccine against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) to individuals aged 50–59 who are in high-risk groups. This is in addition to the existing recommendations for vaccinating individuals aged 75 and older, as well as adults aged 60–74 who are at increased risk.
RSV belongs to the family Paramyxoviridae and is one of the most common causes of respiratory tract and lung infections worldwide, particularly during the winter months. The virus causes a range of respiratory infections across all age groups but is particularly dangerous in infants and older adults.
Currently, several immunization options are available against RSV:
Passive Immunization:
Palivizumab – A monoclonal antibody directed against RSV A and B strains, primarily administered to high-risk infants.
Nirsevimab – A long-acting monoclonal antibody.
Active Immunization for Adults:
AREXVY by GSK – A recombinant subunit vaccine based on the RSV F protein (strain A), combined with the AS01E adjuvant.
ABRYSVO by Pfizer – A recombinant subunit vaccine, approved for use in pregnant women as well. It contains two F proteins derived from different sources (strains A and B).
mRESVIA by Moderna – An mRNA-based vaccine encoding the RSV F protein.
A legal dispute had been ongoing between GSK and Pfizer regarding intellectual property rights associated with the development of RSV vaccines. Recently, the parties reached a settlement, concluding the legal proceedings.
