Scientists have been trying to develop an RSV vaccine for decades.
The US Food and Drug Administration on Wednesday approved the first RSV vaccine in the US
Scientists have been trying to develop an RSV vaccine for decades after previous high-profile attempts failed.
The vaccine, manufactured by the pharmaceutical company GSK, is intended for older people. Pfizer and Moderna are also developing his RSV vaccines as well.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention should consider specific recommendations coming in June. GSK expects to have enough vaccines to meet demand in time for the fall and winter respiratory disease seasons.
GSK said it has “ready to ship millions of doses”.
Peter Marks, director of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, said in a statement: Today’s first RSV vaccine approval is an important public health achievement for preventing potentially life-threatening disease and will advance the development of a safe and effective vaccine for use in the United States. It reflects the FDA’s ongoing commitment. ”
RSV is a viral infection that causes mild illness in most people. However, it can be dangerous for the elderly and some young children. According to the FDA, RSV is a common cause of lower respiratory tract disease (LRTD), which affects the lungs and can lead to life-threatening pneumonia and bronchiolitis.
Between 60,000 and 120,000 older people are hospitalized for RSV each year.
RSV circulation is seasonal, usually beginning in autumn and peaking in winter. Pharmaceutical companies are also working on RSV vaccines for young children.
