NYITCOM's study sheds light on RSV vaccine considerations for special populations, addressing misinformation and hesitancy. The research highlights the importance of accurate information, vaccine recommendations, and proper administration to protect vulnerable populations.
Addressing RSV Vaccine Misinformation and Hesitancy: Insights from NYITCOM Study
( Credit to: Nyit )
The College of Osteopathic Medicine (NYITCOM) has conducted a study that aims to combat misinformation and hesitancy surrounding the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine. Led by Associate Professor Maria Pino and student Mansi Patel, the research sheds light on RSV vaccine considerations for special populations, including older and pregnant patients.
The approval of RSV vaccines for use in adults by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) prior to the current season offered hope for reducing RSV cases. However, surprisingly, only a few eligible patients received the vaccine. To address this issue, the study published in the journal Pharmacy Times provides healthcare professionals with a better understanding of RSV vaccines and their potential side effects. By equipping healthcare professionals with accurate information, the study aims to address vaccine hesitancy and ensure that those who need the vaccine receive it.
Importance of Accurate Information and Vaccine Recommendations
Accurate information is crucial in addressing RSV vaccine hesitancy. The study by Patel and Dr. Pino emphasizes the importance of healthcare professionals having a comprehensive understanding of available RSV vaccines and their potential side effects. By providing accurate information, healthcare professionals can make informed decisions when recommending the vaccine to patients, thereby addressing vaccine hesitancy.
It is essential for healthcare professionals to stay updated on the available RSV vaccines and their recommendations. Two vaccines, Abrysvo (manufactured by Pfizer) and Arexvy (manufactured by GSK), have been made available for RSV vaccination in adults. Vaccination is recommended for older adults, individuals with weakened immune systems, those living in long-term facilities, and those with underlying cardiopulmonary disease. The study reveals that annually, there are up to 160,000 RSV hospitalizations and 10,000 deaths in adults aged 65 and over.
Challenges in RSV Vaccination Efforts
Despite the alarming figures and increasing concerns about respiratory illnesses, reports indicate that only a small percentage of older Americans received the RSV vaccine this season. Similarly, although one of the available vaccines was approved for use in later-stage pregnancies, only 16 percent of eligible pregnant patients were vaccinated. This suggests a potential vaccine hesitancy issue, possibly stemming from concerns about vaccine overload.
Dr. Pino, a licensed pharmacist, suggests that the data may reflect growing concerns about vaccine overload among patients. With the annual recommendations for influenza and COVID-19 vaccines, the addition of another vaccine may have contributed to hesitancy. However, Dr. Pino emphasizes the importance of trusting healthcare professionals' advice when making vaccination decisions. The long-term adverse effects of vaccines are minimal compared to the potential risks of contracting RSV.
Ensuring Proper Vaccine Administration and Protecting Vulnerable Populations
Proper vaccine administration, particularly for pregnant patients, is crucial to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the RSV vaccine. The study highlights the importance of taking precautions to prevent the mistaken administration of RSV vaccines to pregnant patients. Vaccine providers should store each formulation in separate refrigerators and clearly label them as "not for pregnant patients." Additionally, showing the vaccine bottle to patients and clearly communicating the intended vaccine can help prevent administration errors.
The approved RSV vaccine, when administered to pregnant patients in their third trimester, can pass protective antibodies to unborn babies. This can help prevent severe RSV disease in infants from birth to six months of age. Clinical studies have shown that maternal RSV vaccine uptake reduced the risk of severe disease in infants by 82 percent within three months and 69 percent within six months following birth.
Conclusion
NYITCOM's research on RSV vaccine considerations for special populations, conducted by Mansi Patel and Dr. Maria Pino, provides valuable insights to combat misinformation and hesitancy surrounding RSV vaccination. By providing accurate information, addressing concerns about vaccine overload, and ensuring proper vaccine administration, healthcare professionals can make informed recommendations and protect vulnerable populations from RSV.
