COVID Vaccination Remains charged as RSV Shot Gains Acceptance, Bavarian Doctors Report
Bad Tölz, Germany – While demand for influenza and COVID-19 vaccinations is underway in the Bad Tölz-Wolfratshausen district, doctors report a stark contrast in public acceptance, with lingering emotional responses to COVID-19 impacting uptake. Despite recommendations for vulnerable populations, the logistical challenges of administering the COVID-19 vaccine persist, while a new vaccine against RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is being met with considerably less skepticism.
Family doctor Dr. Matthias Bohnenberger notes, “Everything that has to do with Corona is still emotionalized,” explaining the difference in demand compared to influenza vaccination. He clarifies that COVID-19 vaccination remains recommended for risk patients and those in the medical sector. Dr. Lohse, a physician in Münsingen, echoes this sentiment, stating that while the virus “is not gone…you can compare the extent with a second flu wave,” and confirms they are currently treating COVID-19 patients.
Pharmacy spokesman Christopher Hummel, in a press release, recommends the COVID-19 vaccine for individuals aged 60 and over, as well as those with chronic illnesses, advising individual consultation.
However, Bohnenberger highlights the logistical hurdles: “The vaccination still does not exist individually. if you thaw a vaccine, you have to vaccinate six people on that day, otherwise vaccine breaks,” creating a important organizational burden for practices. He expresses frustration with short-notice cancellations.
In contrast, the newly available RSV vaccine is gaining traction. Bohnenberger describes it as “a sensible prevention measure before pneumonia that can be triggered by RSV viruses,” recommended and covered by health insurance for those over 75 and patients over 60 with specific risk factors. “Compared to this new vaccine, there is no great skepticism compared to Corona,” he states, adding that patients have tolerated the RSV vaccine well in his practice.
