STIKO recommends RSV vaccination for all newborns
RSV can currently cause Bronchitis and pneumonia in infants. One out of every fourth infected child needs treatment. The Permanent Vaccination Commission at the Robert Koch Institute therefore advocates for the vaccination of all infants. This is recommended regardless of potential risk factors.
For newborns and infants, the Permanent Vaccination Commission (STIKO) recommends receiving an antibody substance for protection against the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) as soon as possible. "A severe respiratory disease with RSV is the most common reason for hospitalization in children in their first year of life," said pediatrician and STIKO member Julia Tabatabai. Every fourth child with an RSV infection requires medical treatment during their first year of life. In particular, young infants can develop a severe respiratory disease, making early protection important.
The recommendation from the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) suggests vaccinating all newborns and infants, regardless of potential risk factors. The substance should be injected during the first RSV season following birth. The season typically lasts from October to March. Infants born between April and September should receive the medication between September and November, according to STIKO. For newborns born during an RSV season, STIKO recommends administering the medication as soon as possible after birth, even before discharge from the hospital.
Passive Immunization
An injection of the antibody Nirsevimab is recommended. The molecule binds to a virus protein and prevents the entry of the pathogen into body cells. This is known as passive immunization: pre-existing antibodies are administered, which are therefore not produced by the body's own immune system. This provides immediate protection, but it is only effective for a limited time as the antibodies are eventually broken down. The protection provided by Nirsevimab lasts approximately six months, as explained by Johannes Liese, head of pediatric infectiology and immunology at the University Clinic Würzburg.
RSV causes respiratory infections in both children and adults. In principle, anyone can contract the disease and be re-infected. Particularly in infants, the virus can cause Bronchitis and pneumonia.
Risk groups for severe courses include premature infants, infants with lung disease or heart defects, adults over 65, and people with weakened immune systems. Deaths also occur, although they are rare, as Tabatabai stated. Vaccination not only protects those affected but also relieves the burden on the healthcare system. The annual season is a "massive challenge" for clinics and practices, according to Liese. After the Corona pandemic, there have been heavy RSV waves in many countries.
The Standing Vaccination Commission at the Robert Koch Institute strongly advocates for the vaccination of all infants against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), regardless of potential risk factors, due to the serious health consequences of the virus, such as Bronchitis and pneumonia. To ensure proper education about the benefits of RSV vaccination, the Robert Koch Institute encourages open dialogue and information sharing with parents and caregivers.
