Single Dose RSV Vaccine Offers Protection Against Hospitalization in Older Adults Across Two Seasons

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association reveals that a single shot of the RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) vaccine significantly reduces hospitalization and severe illness due to RSV in adults aged 60 and older over two consecutive RSV seasons. Conducted by the IVY Network research group, the study analyzed medical data from nearly 7,000 hospitalized adults across 26 hospitals in 20 U.S. states during the fall and winter seasons of 2023-2025.

RSV is a common cause of respiratory illness, with its peak during fall and winter months, leading to an estimated 100,000 to 150,000 hospitalizations and 4,000 to 8,000 deaths annually among older adults in the United States. The findings indicate that the vaccine provided a 58% overall reduction in RSV-related hospitalizations, with effectiveness of 69% in the first year post-vaccination and 48% in the second year, highlighting both the protective benefits and the potential waning of immunity over time.

Principal investigator Wesley Self from Vanderbilt University Medical Center emphasized the importance of these results, noting that vaccines are especially crucial for preventing severe outcomes in vulnerable populations. The study used a test-negative, case-control design to compare vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals, demonstrating compelling evidence of the vaccine's efficacy.

However, the data also suggest that the protective effect decreases gradually, raising the possibility of administering booster doses to maintain immunity. Current recommendations advocate for RSV vaccination in all adults aged 75 and above, as well as those aged 60–74 who are at increased risk.

This research reinforces the public health value of RSV vaccination programs and paves the way for further studies on optimal dosing schedules to sustain long-term protection.