CDC Enhances RSV Vaccine Guidance for Elderly Adults
People 75 and older should be vaccinated for RSV, but those 60 to 74 should do so only if they are higher risk for severe disease.
U.S. health authorities have strengthened their recommendation for RSV vaccinations, emphasizing that individuals aged 75 and older should receive them, while offering a more limited endorsement for those aged 60 to 74.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) director adopted these updated guidelines from an external advisory committee, reflecting concerns about the previous year’s vague recommendation for individuals aged 60 and older to discuss vaccination with their doctors. This ambiguity was seen as confusing for patients and contributed to low vaccination rates of less than 25% among older Americans. RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, can cause cold-like symptoms but poses particular risks to infants and the elderly.
Last year, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved single-dose RSV vaccines from GSK and Pfizer for older populations, though the advisory committee hesitated to universally recommend them due to safety and efficacy uncertainties.
Despite ongoing concerns and requests from vaccine manufacturers, the committee opted not to endorse broader vaccination for all Americans aged 60 and older. Instead, they recommended vaccination for those aged 75 and older and for individuals aged 60 to 74 who are at higher risk for severe RSV-related illness, such as those with chronic heart disease, kidney disease, lung conditions, severe obesity, or residing in nursing homes.
Concerns about potential side effects, including Guillain-Barre syndrome, a rare nervous system disorder, influenced the committee’s cautious approach. Although the FDA found no definitive link between RSV vaccines and Guillain-Barre syndrome, ongoing research continues to monitor potential risks.
Dr. Camille Kotton, an infectious diseases expert, expressed overall support for the benefits of RSV vaccination outweighing risks but emphasized ongoing vigilance regarding adverse reactions.
The committee’s recommendations also extend to Moderna’s newly approved RSV vaccine, aligning with the cautious approach adopted for existing vaccines.
