U.S. officials and drugmakers are promoting new vaccines to protect against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) this fall. They are hoping seniors will accept a trifecta of RSV, flu, and COVID-19 shots to keep their lungs and hospital rooms clear.
Doctors recommend getting a flu shot each year, and COVID-19 shots have been widely promoted during the pandemic. Now, GlaxoSmithKline and Pfizer have developed RSV vaccines, which will make their debut this fall. These vaccines are especially important for older individuals, as RSV can be deadly for them, particularly those with underlying health conditions.
The RSV vaccines are recommended for individuals aged 60 and older, but rather than being an automatic recommendation, it is considered a shared clinical decision-making process between doctors and patients. Medical experts suggest that older patients with heart and lung issues will be prime candidates for all three shots, but their willingness to receive them is key.
Last year, RSV, along with the flu and COVID-19, caused concerns about a “triple pandemic.” As a result, drugmakers and immunization managers are now spreading the word among senior homes and doctors who serve older patients. Last year’s rough season increased awareness about RSV, but it is challenging to gauge the level of public interest in the vaccines.
The vaccines for RSV, flu, and COVID-19 can be administered at once, but it’s unlikely that most adult patients will accept three vaccines simultaneously. Therefore, patients may need to return for subsequent shots, which may require more effort in persuading them to do so.
Adding a third shot for RSV will be a test of seniors’ willingness to get vaccinated. While over 90% of American seniors received a two-dose primary series for COVID-19, only around 43% of them received an updated booster shot last fall. However, flu shot coverage among seniors is trending positively, with over 70% of seniors receiving their flu shots as of March.
Vaccine hesitancy has been a challenge during the pandemic, and it is anticipated to be even more challenging to convince people to get the additional vaccines. Education and clear communication about the importance of all three vaccines will be essential to ensure seniors’ protection against these diseases.
The RSV vaccines by GlaxoSmithKline and Pfizer have undergone thorough testing for safety and efficacy. They have proven to be effective in preventing serious RSV disease in older adults. The hope is that this information, along with trusted voices like NBA legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson, will help overcome vaccine hesitancy.
As the fall approaches, it will be interesting to see how seniors respond to the new three-shot RSV vaccine. Their willingness to roll up their sleeves will be a testament to their commitment to protecting themselves from these respiratory illnesses.
Unique Perspective: Vaccines play a crucial role in protecting against respiratory illnesses, such as RSV, flu, and COVID-19. For seniors, who are at a higher risk of severe complications from these diseases, accepting the new three-shot RSV vaccine can be a challenge. However, with proper education and communication, seniors can make informed decisions about their health and take the necessary steps to protect themselves. It is essential to emphasize the potential benefits of these vaccines and address any concerns or hesitancy they may have. By doing so, we can help seniors embrace the new vaccine and enhance their overall well-being.
