The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has expanded its endorsement of the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine, allowing more people to receive the shot. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), which advises the CDC, had previously recommended the vaccine only for those aged 75 and older or 60-74 years old with certain underlying medical conditions.
The new guidance, pending final approval, extends eligibility to individuals aged 50 and older who are at risk of developing severe RSV-linked lower respiratory tract disease. This change is expected to boost sales of GSK’s Arexvy and Pfizer’s Abrysvo, which saw a decline in sales last year after the initial CDC recommendation.
The move comes after positive trial results showing the vaccine’s effectiveness in adults aged 50-59, including those with underlying medical conditions. According to the CDC, RSV-associated hospitalizations among adults aged 50-59 occur annually at a rate of 15,000 to 20,000 cases. Those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, heart failure, and diabetes are at increased risk.
GSK’s Chief Scientific Officer Tony Wood stated that the new guidance would increase the RSV vaccine-eligible patient population by 13 million. The CDC also endorsed GSK’s 5-in-1 shot Penmenvy for adolescent meningococcal vaccination in individuals aged 16 to 23, as well as for children ages 10 to 15 at increased risk.
Additionally, the ACIP signed off on Bavarian Nordic’s chikungunya vaccine Vimkunya for people aged 12 and older traveling to countries with an outbreak. The CDC has warned of evidence of chikungunya virus transmission in over 50 countries within the last five years.
Source: https://www.fiercepharma.com/pharma/rsv-shots-gsk-pfizer-get-boost-expanded-acip-recommendation