2023-07-22 06:29:12
EMA Approves First Vaccine for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
In a major advancement in medical research, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has granted approval for the first vaccine against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The vaccine, known as Abrysvo, has been developed by the US pharmaceutical company Pfizer and can be used in both infants and individuals over 60 years of age. However, it still requires approval from the EU Commission.
RSV is a global pathogen that typically causes mild symptoms but can lead to severe respiratory illnesses, especially in vulnerable groups such as the elderly, people with weakened immune systems, newborns, and infants. It has been responsible for more than 270,000 hospitalizations and approximately 20,000 hospitalization-related deaths among individuals aged 60 and over in Europe each year, according to GlaxoSmithKline (GSK).
The Abrysvo vaccine offers passive immunization for infants by transferring antibodies from vaccinated mothers through the placenta. This protection lasts for up to six months after birth, significantly reducing the risk of RSV infection during a critical developmental stage.
With the recent decline of the COVID-19 pandemic, respiratory diseases, including RSV, have resurfaced in many countries worldwide. Last winter, Germany witnessed an increase in hospitalizations of newborns and infants due to acute respiratory diseases, potentially related to the reduced exposure of children to RSV during the pandemic. Currently, only symptomatic treatment is available for RSV.
Pfizer sees the EMA’s recommendation as a significant step forward in preventing RSV disease, particularly in older adults and young children who are most vulnerable to its complications. Analysts predict that the RSV vaccine market could exceed $10 billion in the next decade, and additional manufacturers like Moderna are expected to introduce their own RSV vaccines soon.
In other news, President Joe Biden has made history by nominating Lisa Franchetti as the first woman to lead the US Navy. This move aligns with Biden’s commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in leadership roles across various sectors.
These developments mark important milestones in healthcare and gender equality, offering hope for a healthier and more inclusive future.]
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