FDA Approves Pfizer's ABRYSVO RSV Vaccine for Seniors and Pregnant Women, Boasting High Efficacy

October 23, 2024
FDA Approves Pfizer's ABRYSVO RSV Vaccine for Seniors and Pregnant Women, Boasting High Efficacy
  • Concerns have been raised about the potential need for booster shots in the future and the development of new vaccines that could necessitate updates to vaccination guidelines.

  • Organizations like the National Caucus and Center on Black Aging are actively promoting vaccine access and preventive healthcare among older adults to address ongoing disparities.

  • ABRYSVO has received approvals in multiple countries and is now set to be available in Singapore starting November 1, where pregnant women can receive the vaccine to protect their infants against RSV.

  • While some infants born to vaccinated mothers may experience slightly lower weights and a higher risk of jaundice, they remain healthy overall.

  • The anticipated adverse effects of pneumococcal vaccines are minimal, although Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a potential concern, with ongoing safety monitoring by the CDC and FDA.

  • The Health Ministry of Singapore will monitor the vaccine's effectiveness and any serious adverse events over time, as health equity concerns highlight disparities in vaccine coverage across different racial and ethnic groups.

  • The CDC's advisory committee recently voted 14-1 in favor of expanding the use of ABRYSVO, the first RSV vaccine approved for broader adult use, which was previously limited to individuals aged 60 and older.

  • Current CDC guidelines recommend pneumococcal vaccinations for children under five, adults aged 65 and older, and individuals at increased risk due to conditions such as diabetes or a weakened immune system.

  • The vaccine is designed to shield infants from lower respiratory tract disease caused by RSV, which can lead to severe conditions like pneumonia until they are six months old.

  • In clinical trials, the RSV vaccine demonstrated 91.1% effectiveness in preventing severe RSV disease in infants during the first 90 days after birth.

  • Experts emphasize the importance of vaccination, as RSV can increase the risk of long-term respiratory issues in infants, and the CDC Director has highlighted vaccination as crucial in preparation for the winter respiratory season.

  • RSV is a significant cause of pneumonia in toddlers and older adults, resulting in approximately 177,000 hospitalizations and 14,000 deaths annually in the U.S.

Summary based on 11 sources


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