From 1 September 2024, the UK government will introduce new RSV vaccination programs targeting older adults and pregnant women.
This initiative, driven by recommendations from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), aims to protect vulnerable populations and reduce the burden of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a major cause of hospital admissions, especially in winter.
Protecting Older Adults
Eligibility and Implementation
Starting this autumn, adults aged 74 to 80 will be eligible for the RSV vaccine. The program consists of two parts:
- A primary offer for those turning 75 within the next 12 months.
- A catch-up program for those aged 75 to 80 as of 1 August 2024.
The Arexvy Vaccine
The UK has approved Arexvy, produced by GlaxoSmithKline, as the first RSV vaccine for older adults. Clinical trials showed Arexvy to be 82.6% effective against lower respiratory tract disease and 94.1% effective against severe disease in this age group.
The single-dose vaccine offers protection for two winter seasons and is administered as an injection in the upper arm.
Expected Impact
With around 14,000 hospitalisations and 8,000 deaths annually due to RSV in adults over 60, this program aims to significantly reduce these numbers. The inclusion of this vaccine as an essential service under the GP Contract underscores its importance in safeguarding public health.
Safeguarding Infants through Maternal Vaccination
Program Details for Pregnant Women
Pregnant women between 32 and 36 weeks of gestation will also receive the RSV vaccine during the RSV season, typically from September to January.
The aim is to protect infants from severe RSV illness during their first six months by passing antibodies from mother to baby through the placenta.
The Abrysvo Vaccine
While the official announcement did not specify the vaccine, it is likely to be Abrysvo by Pfizer, currently the only RSV vaccine approved for use during pregnancy.
Clinical studies indicate that this vaccine can reduce a baby’s risk of hospitalization due to RSV by 57% in the first six months after birth.
Administration and Side Effects
Administered as a single-dose injection in the mother’s upper arm, the RSV vaccine for pregnant women can be given alongside other recommended vaccines during pregnancy.
Common side effects include pain at the injection site, headache, muscle pain, and nausea.
Alternative Protection Options
Mothers may need to choose between the RSV vaccine during pregnancy and nirsevimab, an antibody injection for the baby after birth. This choice will depend on individual circumstances and medical advice.
Implementation and Support
Guidance and Administration
Both vaccination programs will be included as essential services under the GP Contract from 1 September 2024. To support the rollout, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) will produce a new Patient Group Direction (PGD) template.
Advocacy and Backing
This move comes after considerable advocacy from healthcare professionals and organizations. An open letter signed by over 2,000 paediatricians and healthcare professionals urged the government to act on JCVI’s advice and implement a comprehensive RSV immunisation programme.
Expected Benefits
The introduction of these vaccination programs marks a significant step in public health, aiming to reduce the incidence of RSV-related hospitalisations and deaths.
By protecting older adults and infants, these initiatives are set to have a profound impact on the UK’s healthcare system.
Projected Impact of RSV Vaccination Programs
Category |
Older Adults |
Pregnant Women |
|---|---|---|
| Target Group | Adults aged 74-80 | Women 32-36 weeks gestation |
| Vaccine | Arexvy by GlaxoSmithKline | Likely Abrysvo by Pfizer |
| Efficacy | 82.6% against lower respiratory disease, 94.1% against severe disease | 57% reduction in infant hospitalization |
| Administration | Single-dose injection in upper arm | Single-dose injection in upper arm |
| Program Start Date | 1 September 2024 | 1 September 2024 |
| Implementation | Included under GP Contract | Included under GP Contract |
To Summarize
The UK government’s new RSV vaccination programs for older adults and pregnant women represent a proactive approach to combating a significant public health issue.
By launching these initiatives, the UK aims to reduce the impact of RSV, particularly during the vulnerable winter months, ultimately saving lives and reducing the strain on the NHS.
Sources: THX News, UK Health Security Agency & NHS England.
