Recent findings from a test-negative, case-control study have shown promising results for the effectiveness of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccination among older adults. Led by researchers at the CDC in Atlanta, the study revealed that during the first season of use, RSV vaccination in adults 60 and over was linked to a significant reduction in the risk of hospitalization. The data indicated a vaccine effectiveness of 75% against RSV-associated hospitalization from October 2023 to March 2024.
Based on these findings, the CDC recommends a single dose of RSV vaccine for all adults age 75 and older, as well as for those ages 60 to 74 years who are at an increased risk for severe RSV disease. It is worth noting that there are now three vaccines approved for older adults, providing more options for prevention. The initial recommendation for RSV vaccination in older adults was made in 2023 due to the high efficacy demonstrated in prelicensure randomized trials.
The study included 2,978 adults aged 60 and over, with a subgroup of 367 representing case patients and the rest serving as controls. Among the RSV cases with known subtypes, 73% were attributed to RSV B. The participants had a median age of 72, a median Charlson Comorbidity Index score of 5, and 24.2% of them were considered immunocompromised. They were hospitalized with acute respiratory illness at various facilities across multiple states, undergoing clinical respiratory virus testing within 10 days of symptom onset.
It was found that RSV vaccination status was determined through various sources, including electronic medical records, immunization registries, and self-reporting. While the study showed positive results for vaccination, there were limitations to consider. Disparities in vaccine uptake and low utilization in the first season of use may impact generalizability. Additionally, there is the potential for residual confounding from unmeasured factors that could influence the interpretation of the results.
The study provides valuable insights into the efficacy of RSV vaccination in older adults. The results indicate a significant reduction in the risk of RSV-associated hospitalization, highlighting the importance of vaccination in this population. Moving forward, continued research and monitoring of vaccine effectiveness will be crucial in further understanding the impact of RSV vaccination on older adults.
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