Respiratory Syncytial Virus, or RSV, has long been a major public health concern — especially for infants and older adults. While the virus typically only causes mild cold-like symptoms, it can lead to severe respiratory complications such as pneumonia and bronchiolitis, particularly in high-risk populations.
According to the CDC, RSV remains a leading cause of lower respiratory tract infections. These infections often result in hospitalization among vulnerable groups, particularly older adults, young children, and immunocompromised patients. In fact, RSV leads to thousands of hospitalizations annually among older patients.
For many years, though, RSV vaccines to prevent these severe cases didn’t exist. The need for an RSV vaccine grew pressing, particularly for vulnerable patients, as there has historically been no effective way to prevent serious RSV infections.
Thankfully, that changed in 2023 when the FDA approved two groundbreaking RSV vaccines: Arexvy by GSK and Abrysvo by Pfizer. These vaccines represent a significant advancement in the battle against RSV. And — there are more vaccine options in development that focus on increasing efficacy as well as targeting different age groups.
So, with that (recent) history lesson over, let’s jump into an overview of the available RSV vaccines, how they work, and how to choose the right option!
In This Article:
- Overview of RSV Vaccine Options
- Comparing RSV Vaccines: How to Choose the Right One
- Other Things to Know When Comparing RSV Vaccines
Overview of RSV Vaccine Options
The recent FDA approvals of Abrysvo and Arexvy mark a significant milestone in public health.
Both vaccines primarily target adults aged 60 and older, who are at the highest risk of severe RSV complications. These vaccines focus on preventing lower respiratory tract disease, which can lead to hospitalization or death. The development of these vaccines marks the culmination of decades of research and represents a significant step forward in protecting vulnerable populations.
As stated above, there are other RSV vaccines in development, including formulations targeting different age groups. However, for now, Abrysvo and Arexvy are the primary options available to older adults.
Arexvy (GSK)
Arexvy, developed by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), is an RSV vaccine approved for adults aged 60 and older. The vaccine works by targeting the prefusion F protein, a key component of the RSV virus. This protein plays a crucial role in how the virus enters human cells. By generating an immune response to it, the body becomes better equipped to fight off the virus.
In clinical trials, Arexvy reduced severe RSV-related illness by 82.6%, providing strong protection for older adults at risk of serious complications. In terms of side effects, Arexvy has been well tolerated by most patients. Common side effects include fatigue, muscle pain, and headaches.
Abrysvo (Pfizer)
Abrysvo, developed by Pfizer, is another vaccine approved for adults aged 60 and older, as well as pregnant women to help protect newborns. Like Arexvy, Abrysvo targets the F protein of the RSV virus, helping the immune system recognize and fight the virus more effectively. However, Abrysvo and Arexvy use different, proprietary formulations.
In clinical trials, Abrysvo demonstrated strong efficacy, reducing the risk of lower respiratory tract disease (LRTD) by 67% and the risk of RSV-related hospitalization by 85%. This high level of protection is especially important for older adults who are more susceptible to severe illness.
Its safety profile is similar to that of Arexvy, with common side effects including mild pain at the injection site, fatigue, and fever, all of which are typical for many vaccines.
Learn More: 2024 RSV Vaccine Rundown: Everything You Need to Know
Comparing RSV Vaccines: How to Choose the Right One
When it comes to comparing RSV vaccines, there are several unique factors to consider. Before choosing between Abrysvo or Arexvy, take these things into consideration:
- Health status: Your age, any underlying health conditions, and overall risk of severe RSV infection should guide your decision. Both vaccines are highly effective for older adults, but those with specific medical conditions may benefit from consulting their doctor about the best option.
- Efficacy: Both Abrysvo and Arexvy have shown strong efficacy in clinical trials. Abrysvo reduced hospitalizations by 85%, while Arexvy reduced severe RSV illness by 82.6%. While the difference may not be substantial, some individuals may prefer one based on their personal risk factors or healthcare provider recommendations.
- Side effects: Both vaccines have similar side effect profiles, including mild pain at the injection site, fatigue, and muscle pain. These side effects are generally short-lived and manageable.
- Your healthcare provider‘s recommendations: It’s always a good idea to speak with your doctor before making any decisions. They can help you assess your individual risk for RSV and determine which vaccine is best suited to your needs.
Both vaccines show a similar ability to prevent serious RSV-related complications, and both offer significant protection — so what’s the difference?
Keen eyed readers will have noticed that Arexvy is approved only for adults aged 60 and older, while Abrysvo has been approved for use by pregnant women under specific circumstances to help protect infants. Currently, Village Apothecary only offers Arexvy.
So, patients 60 and older are more than welcome! For pregnant patients seeking an RSV vaccine, while we don’t stock Abrysvo at the moment, we’re happy to help you find a provider who is able to assist you.
Learn More: Vaccines Do Work, But They’re Not Perfect
Other Things to Know When Comparing RSV Vaccines
Although Abrysvo and Arexvy are currently the two primary RSV vaccines available, several other vaccines are in the pipeline.
Some of these focus on providing broader protection across age groups or improving efficacy for particularly vulnerable populations. As more vaccines become approved, individuals will have even more options for RSV prevention in the coming years.
Learn More: Vaccine Season Preview: 2024-2025
RSV Vaccines in 2024: Now You Know
Although RSV can still pose a significant threat to vulnerable populations, the approval of vaccines like Arexvy and Abrysvo offer new hope in the fight against the virus.
While the vaccines do differ slightly, whichever you choose will offer strong efficacy and relatively mild side effects, providing much needed protection against RSV and LRTD. So, if you or a loved one is over 60, or at high risk for severe RSV, talk to one of our experts (or your healthcare provider) about getting vaccinated and staying protected.
