CDC Approves RSV Vaccine for Infants, Including Maternal Option

Advisors to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have recommended a new RSV vaccine, Abryvso, to protect newborns by immunizing expectant mothers in the third trimester. RSV is the leading cause of hospitalization for infants in the U.S., and the vaccine aims to reduce the risk of lower respiratory tract disease caused by RSV during the first six months of life. The CDC advisory committee's recommendations align with the FDA's approval of the vaccine for pregnant individuals. This fall, two new interventions for preventing RSV in babies will be available: the Pfizer vaccine for pregnant women and nirsevimab, a monoclonal antibody for infants under eight months old. The CDC advises that parents choose one of these options, as they offer redundant protection. The manufacturers expect to launch their products in time for the RSV season this fall.