RESPIRATORY SYNCYTIAL VIRUS VACCINES IN THE ELDERLY: EFFICACY AND SAFETY

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.15951725110410

• Palavras-chave: Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Arexvy, Abrysvo, Elderly, Vaccination.

• Keywords: Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Arexvy, Abrysvo, Elderly, Vaccination.

• Abstract:

  This literature review aimed to analyze the efficacy and safety of vaccines against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) in the elderly, considering the duration of protection, adverse effects and reduction of serious complications. To do this, the PVO (Population, Variable and Outcome) strategy was used, with searches carried out in the PubMed/MEDLINE database. Studies published between 2021 and 2025, in English, of the systematic review, meta-analysis, observational and experimental types were included, while duplicate articles were excluded.  The studies analyzed showed that the Arexvy® (GSK) and Abrysvo® (Pfizer) vaccines, based on fusion protein F in the pre-fusion conformation, showed greater efficacy compared to post-fusion vaccines, and were approved for use in the elderly in 2023. Moderna's vaccine is currently in phase III trials. The available data suggests that immunization reduces hospitalizations and respiratory complications, with the need for annual boosters to maintain protection. Despite the favorable safety profile, with mild adverse events such as pain at the application site, fatigue and headache, there is a need for additional studies to assess the immune response in immunocompromised elderly people and the duration of the immunity conferred. Continuous monitoring and the expansion of vaccination strategies are fundamental to optimizing the protection of this population and reducing the disease burden.