What is Arexvy? US approves first vaccine for RSV after decades of attempts

The US has approved the first vaccine for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) for people aged 60 and over.

On Wednesday the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of Arexvy in the country.

The vaccine is said to protect older adults against the respiratory virus.

Now the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) must decide if every senior really needs RSV protection or only those considered at high risk from RSV.

In June 2023, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) will decide on the appropriate use of the vaccine in the US.

RSV is a “highly contagious” virus that causes infections of the lungs and breathing passages.

It is very common and spreads easily in coughs and sneezes. Almost all children have had it by the time they’re two years old, according to the NHS.

In older children and adults, RSV may cause a cough or cold, but in young children, it can cause bronchiolitis – a chest infection that, although common, can sometimes be serious.

The CDC said most adults who get RSV have a mild illness that might last between one to two weeks.

However, some people may experience a more severe RSV infection.

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