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Germany's RSV Vaccine Rollout: Challenges and Progress

This article discusses the RSV vaccination rollout in Germany, initial challenges due to vaccine shortages, and the effectiveness of the vaccine in reducing severe RSV cases.

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German

Germany

HealthGermany Public HealthVaccinationMedicineRsv

Bundeszentrale Für Gesundheitliche AufklärungStändige Impfkommission (Stiko)München Klinik (Mük)Berufsverband Der Kinder- Und Jugendärzte

Philipp SchoofMarcus Krüger

How does the Nirsevimab vaccine work, and what is its duration of protection?: Nirsevimab, a passive immunization, prevents RSV from entering cells and provides protection for five months; it significantly reduces severe RSV cases and hospitalizations. Active immunization with Abrysvo is also available for pregnant women from the 32nd week of pregnancy, providing indirect protection to the newborn.
What is the Stiko's recommendation regarding RSV vaccination for newborns and infants?: The Stiko (Standing Vaccination Commission) recommends vaccinating all newborns and infants before their first RSV season with Nirsevimab. The recommendation is for babies born April-September to receive the vaccine between September and November, and for those born October-March to receive it as soon as possible after birth.
What are the initial symptoms of RSV infection in infants, and how severe can it become?: The initial symptoms of RSV infection in infants include runny nose, cough, and sore throat, typically resolving within a week. However, severe cases can lead to lower respiratory tract inflammation, causing rapid and labored breathing, lethargy, and insufficient feeding, requiring hospitalization.
What factors contributed to the initial delays in the RSV vaccination rollout in Germany?: The initial rollout of the RSV vaccine was hampered by insufficient vaccine supply in several German states, attributed to delayed processing of billing modalities for pharmacists and pediatricians and insufficient vaccine ordering by wholesalers.
What is the current status of RSV vaccine availability in Munich, and what is its impact on hospitals and pediatricians?: While the initial vaccine rollout faced challenges due to supply issues, the situation has improved. Munich clinics now have sufficient vaccine supply to ensure all newborns can be vaccinated, easing the burden on hospitals and pediatricians and reducing severe RSV cases.

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