A RECENT study shows that the Respiratory Syncytial Virus Prefusion F (RSVpreF) vaccine provides robust protection for older adults against RSV-related hospitalisations and emergency department (ED) visits. Conducted within Kaiser Permanente of Southern California, USA during the 2023–2024 RSV season, the study found vaccine effectiveness (VE) of 91% and 90% using strict and broad control criteria, respectively.
The research analysed data from 7,047 RSV-tested hospitalisations and ED visits for lower respiratory tract disease (LRTD) between November 2023–April 2024. The study population had a mean age of 76.8 years, included a substantial number of adults over 75 years old, 93.3% with at least one major comorbidity, and 14.2% immunocompromised. Of the participants, 54.2% were female, 33% were Hispanic, 17% were non-Hispanic Black, and 36.9% were non-Hispanic White.
Strict controls were defined as RSV-negative cases with other identifiable causes such as influenza or SARS-CoV-2. Broad controls included all RSV-negative cases, regardless of other findings. For both groups, RSVpreF was highly effective, demonstrating VE of 91% (95% CI: 59–98%) under strict controls and 90% (95% CI: 59–97%) under broad controls.
This study addresses gaps from earlier clinical trials, which included fewer participants aged ≥75 years or with extensive comorbidities. The findings confirm that RSVpreF significantly reduces the risk of severe RSV-related LRTD in older adults, including those who are immunocompromised or face substantial health challenges. The results underline the importance of RSV vaccination for high-risk older populations.
Ada Enesco, EMJ
Reference
Tartof SY et al. Estimated vaccine effectiveness for respiratory syncytial virus-related lower respiratory tract disease. JAMA Netw Open. 2024;7(12):e2450832.
