RSV Vaccines Show Meaningful Protection for Vulnerable Populations, New Data Reveal
Berlin, germany – Recent analyses confirm substantial benefits from newly approved RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) vaccines, offering significant protection to infants, young children, older adults, and pregnant individuals. A review of randomized studies indicates the vaccines reduced lower respiratory tract infections by 54 percent and lowered the risk of serious disease by 74 percent. Hospital stays linked to RSV were also reduced by 54 percent, according to the data.
RSV poses the greatest threat to children under two years old and older adults. “These are encouraging news for two of the most endangered groups,” stated Dr. KM Saif-UR-Rahman of the University of Galway in Ireland.
The findings are based on data from randomized controlled trials, considered the “strongest available” evidence, according to Kate Olsson, a vaccine expert at the European Center for Prevention and Disease Control (ECDC). Real-world studies are currently underway to further assess vaccine safety and effectiveness, with additional analyses expected in the coming weeks. (DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD016131)
Germany’s Approach: In Germany, an RSV vaccine is approved for pregnant women, but cost coverage by statutory health insurance requires a recommendation from the Standing Vaccination Commission (STIKO). Currently, STIKO does not recommend RSV vaccination for pregnant women. Rather, the commission recommends all newborns and infants receive a dose of the monoclonal antibody Nirsevimab either before or during their first RSV season (typically October to march).For babies born between April and September, STIKO advises administering Nirsevimab in the autumn prior to the season’s start, and as soon as possible after birth for those born during the season.
STIKO does recommend RSV vaccination for individuals aged 75 and over, and for those aged 60 and over with underlying health conditions that increase their risk of severe illness. Detailed information is available on the RKI website.(https://www.rki.de/SharedDocs/FAQs/DE/Impfen/RSV/FAQ_Liste_RSV.html?nn=16777208#entry_16918914)
sources: STIKO: Epidemiologisches Bulletin 04/2025, Information on RSV, Frequently asked questions about RSV vaccination.(https://www.rki.de/DE/Aktuelles/Publikationen/Epidemiologisches-Bulletin/2025/04_25.pdf?__blob=publicationFile&v=11, https://www.rki.de/DE/Themen/Infektionskrankheiten/Impfen/Impfungen-A-Z/RSV/rsv-node.html, https://www.rki.de/SharedDocs/FAQs/DE/Impfen/RSV/FAQ_Liste_RSV.html?nn=16777208#entry_16918914)