2023-07-21 20:50:27
EU Approves Vaccine to Protect Babies Against Respiratory Syncytial Virus
The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has given approval for the first vaccine that can protect babies against the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The vaccine, called Abrysvo, builds up protection against the disease by vaccinating the mother during pregnancy. However, the EU Commission still needs to approve the vaccine’s approval.
According to the EMA, Abrysvo is not only the first vaccine that can protect babies up to six months old but also recommended for adults over the age of 60. After vaccination, the immune system produces antibodies and T-cells that help prevent RSV infection. In pregnant women, the antibodies pass through the placenta, providing protection to the child for up to six months after birth.
Respiratory diseases caused by the RS virus are usually mild, but they can be severe or even fatal in small children and vulnerable older adults. The EMA states that the most common side effects from the vaccine include pain at the injection site, headache, and muscle pain in pregnant women. For individuals over 60, pain at the vaccination site is a common side effect.
The “Arexvy” vaccine against the RS virus was already approved by the EU Commission in June, but specifically for adults over 60 years of age. RSV causes approximately 250,000 hospitalizations and 17,000 hospital deaths each year in people aged 65 and over in Europe, according to the Paul Ehrlich Institute.
The approval of the Abrysvo vaccine by the EMA offers new hope in the fight against the respiratory syncytial virus, particularly for the most vulnerable populations. The final decision from the EU Commission is awaited, and if granted, it will mark a significant milestone in protecting infants and adults from this respiratory disease.]
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