“Dr. Manoon” highlights that the RSV vaccine can reduce the severity of the RSV virus. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control has adjusted its recommendations to vaccinate all seniors aged 75 and older and those aged 60-74 who have chronic diseases.
On December 15, 2024, Dr. Manoon Leechawengwong, Head of the Respiratory Disease Unit and Head of the ICU at Vichaiyut Hospital, posted a message on his page, Dr. Manoon Leechawengwong FC, stating that RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) can infect both the upper and lower respiratory tracts. This virus is easily transmissible and has an outbreak in Thailand from July to November of each year. It commonly affects children under 5 years of age and the elderly.
Most RSV cases in children are mild. However, RSV often causes complications in older adults and people with chronic diseases. These complications include fever, coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and fatigue. In some situations, these individuals may require hospitalization, oxygen therapy, or mechanical ventilation.
A vaccine is now available to reduce the severity of RSV. In 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) vaccine to mitigate the severity of RSV. It combines the RSVPreF3 antigen with the ASO1E adjuvant and is given as a single intramuscular injection in the upper arm. A booster dose is not currently recommended.
Clinical trial data has revealed that the vaccine reduces symptoms of RSV infection in both the upper and lower respiratory tracts, including both mild and severe infections.
The vaccine reduces symptoms of lower respiratory tract infection (sputum, cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, wheezing, rapid breathing, low fingertip oxygen levels, or the need for oxygen) in individuals aged 60 years and older by 82.6% in the first year. It also lowers the risk of severe lower respiratory tract infection by 94.1% in the second year. The vaccine’s efficacy remains positive in the third year, with a reduction in symptoms of lower respiratory tract infection by 67.2% and a reduction in the risk of severe lower respiratory tract infection by 78.8%. The vaccine continues to be effective. The efficacy figures for the third year are still being collected.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has updated its RSV vaccination recommendation. While the original FDA approval was for everyone aged 60 and over, the CDC currently recommends vaccination for everyone aged 75 and over and those aged 60-74 with chronic diseases such as heart disease, respiratory disease, diabetes, liver disease, chronic kidney disease, and immunocompromised individuals. Thailand should follow these guidelines.
Regarding side effects, the most common symptoms include pain, swelling, heat at the injection site, fatigue, and muscle pain. These symptoms typically subside within 2-3 days.
There is currently no antiviral drug for RSV, making RSV vaccination a critical measure for prevention.
GSK has recently imported the first RSV vaccine into Thailand. I attended the RSV vaccine launch event on July 5, 2024.
RSV Vaccine: Protection for Senior Citizens and Those With Chronic Diseases
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory infection that can affect individuals of all ages, particularly young children and older adults. The virus causes inflammation in the lungs and airways, leading to symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. While most RSV cases in children are mild, it can pose a serious threat to older adults and those with chronic diseases. The good news is, there is now a vaccine available to reduce the severity of RSV and protect vulnerable populations.
Understanding RSV and its Impact
Dr. Manoon Leechawengwong, a leading respiratory expert, highlights the importance of understanding RSV. The virus spreads easily through respiratory droplets, and outbreaks typically occur in Thailand from July to November.
Who is at Risk?
- Children under 5 years old: While most children experience mild symptoms, RSV can lead to bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lungs), requiring hospitalization in some cases.
- Older adults (60 years and older): The elderly are more susceptible to severe RSV infections, which can escalate into pneumonia, requiring hospitalization and even leading to complications like respiratory failure.
- Individuals with chronic diseases: Those with pre-existing conditions such as heart disease, respiratory disease, diabetes, liver disease, chronic kidney disease, and weakened immune systems are at increased risk for complications from RSV.
The RSV Vaccine: A Promising Solution
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a vaccine developed by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) to reduce the severity of RSV. This vaccine, administered as a single intramuscular injection, has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of severe lower respiratory tract infections and related complications in individuals 60 years and older.
Efficacy and Protection
Clinical studies have demonstrated the vaccine’s effectiveness in protecting once morest severe RSV infections:
- Lower Respiratory Tract Infection: The vaccine reduces the symptoms of lower respiratory tract infection by 82.6% in the first year and by 67.2% in the third year.
- Risk of Severe Infection: The risk of severe lower respiratory tract infection is reduced by 94.1% in the second year and by 78.8% in the third year.
Updated Vaccination Recommendations
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has adjusted its recommendation for RSV vaccination to align with the latest scientific evidence:
- Individuals 75 years and older: Vaccination is now recommended for all individuals in this age group.
- Individuals 60-74 years old: Vaccination is recommended for those with chronic diseases, including heart disease, respiratory disease, diabetes, liver disease, chronic kidney disease, and immune deficiencies.
Side Effects and Safety
The most common side effects of the RSV vaccine are mild and typically resolve within a few days:
- Pain, swelling, and heat at the injection site
- Fatigue
- Muscle pain
It’s important to note that there is currently no antiviral medication available for RSV. Vaccination is crucial for safeguarding vulnerable individuals from the potentially serious consequences of this infection.
The Importance of Vaccination: Protecting Yourself and Your Loved Ones
With the availability of an effective RSV vaccine, we have a powerful tool to prevent severe RSV infections and protect those at risk. It is essential to discuss RSV vaccination with your healthcare provider and determine if it is appropriate for you or your loved ones.
The RSV vaccine represents a significant advancement in public health, offering crucial protection once morest a potentially serious respiratory infection. By increasing vaccination rates and raising awareness regarding the benefits of vaccination, we can work towards a future where RSV is less of a threat to vulnerable populations.
