The GSK respiratory syncytial virus vaccine is indicated for people 60 years of age and older
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the American drug regulatory agency, approved this Wednesday, 3, the world’s first vaccine against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which causes bronchiolitis and pneumonia. The immunizer Arexvy, from the British pharmaceutical company GSK, is recommended for people over the age of 60.
“It’s a major public health achievement in preventing a life-threatening disease,” said Peter Marks, head of the FDA’s vaccine division, in a statement announcing the approval.
RSV is a highly contagious virus that causes an acute respiratory tract infection that can affect the bronchi and lungs. The agent enters the body through the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose or eyes.
As for the The New York Times, the FDA estimates that the virus is associated with 6,000-10,000 deaths each year in adults age 65 and older and at least 60,000 hospitalizations in this age group in the United States. RSV is also a leading cause of death for children worldwide.
“Older adults, especially those with underlying health conditions such as heart or lung disease or a weakened immune system, are at high risk of serious illness caused by RSV,” Marks said.
According to data published in The New England journal of medicine, GSK’s vaccine was nearly 83 percent effective in preventing lower respiratory tract disease in people 60 years of age and older. The study was done with about 25,000 patients. The side effects reported were mainly headache, muscle aches and fatigue. After receiving the vaccine, one volunteer also developed Guillain-Barré syndrome, which is a rare condition. The FDA has asked the company to monitor this risk.
Second Reuters, GSK expects the vaccine to be available before the next viral season in the US. This month, Pfizer’s RSV vaccine for the elderly is also expected to be approved by the FDA.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
