The new vaccination against the RS virus is now available in Austria. Every year, approximately 3.3 percent of the population becomes infected with RSV (respiratory syncytial virus). Infants under one year of age in particular require hospital treatment due to a respiratory disease.
The first contact with the virus usually happens very early, but does not protect against further infections, says virologist Monika Redlberger-Fritz from MedUni Vienna. About eight in ten babies develop it within the first year of life. Almost all children have had an RSV infection by their second birthday. Symptoms include a runny nose, sore throat and/or fever. Sick people should expect an average of 8.4 days of sick leave.
Although the new vaccines are not approved for infants or children, at least pregnant women can now be vaccinated, meaning the child is protected for about six months after birth. In addition to pregnant women, the new vaccination against RSV is also recommended for people over 60 and people at risk. Risk factors for a severe course in adults include chronic lung diseases such as COPD and asthma. Cardiovascular diseases such as heart failure, diabetes or a weak immune system are also dangerous with RSV.
Here you can see an infographic about RSV.
170 people die from RSV every year
After surviving an infection, the elderly are at increased risk of heart attacks and strokes, says Arshang Valipour, head of the department of internal medicine and pulmonary diseases at the Vienna Clinic Floridsdorf. An average of 170 people die from an infection in Austria every year.
The two new vaccines Arexvy and Abrysvo (for pregnant women) were first approved before this year’s cold season and are recommended as a single dose. They must be paid privately and amount to approximately 275 euros.
Babies with congenital heart defects, neurological disorders or immune deficiencies are currently given preventive medications that last for a month. In Austria, treatment must also be approved monthly by the chief physician. A longer-acting drug could be available next year. Other preventive measures include washing and disinfecting hands regularly.
Source: Krone
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