The Permanent Vaccination Commission (STIKO) at the Robert Koch Institute is recommending that all newborns receive vaccination against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), which can lead to bronchitis and pneumonia in infants. Approximately one in four infants infected with RSV requires medical treatment. Pediatrician and STIKO member Julia Tabatabai emphasized the severity of RSV-related respiratory illnesses, a leading cause of hospitalization in infants during their first year.
The recommendation advocates for administering an antibody substance soon after birth, ideally before discharge from the hospital, during the typical RSV season from October to March. Infants born outside this period should receive the vaccination between September and November. Nirsevimab, an antibody that binds to RSV proteins, is recommended for passive immunization, providing immediate protection against the virus for about six months.
RSV infections pose risks to both children and adults, with infants particularly susceptible to severe respiratory diseases. High-risk groups include premature infants, those with underlying lung or heart conditions, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Vaccination is crucial not only for protecting vulnerable populations but also for alleviating strain on healthcare facilities, especially after recent surges in RSV cases following the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Robert Koch Institute stresses the importance of widespread RSV vaccination and aims to inform parents and caregivers comprehensively about its benefits.
