The Curbsiders Internal Medicine Podcast R.S.V. Immunization with The Cribsiders
Jan 31, 2024
Dr. Buddy Creech, Pediatric Infectious Disease at Vanderbilt, talks about RSV immunizations, including eligibility criteria and challenges in finding doses. The discussion covers the importance of RSV immunizations for all age groups, the concept of pre-fusion and post-fusion in relation to the virus's fusion protein, alternatives to Bayfortas, health equity for indigenous populations, and key takeaways such as preventing lower respiratory tract disease.
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RSV's U-Shaped Public Health Impact
- RSV causes a U-shaped burden with highest risk in infants and older adults.
- Preventing RSV in one group can indirectly protect others via reduced transmission.
Prefer Nirsevimab For Infant Protection
- Use nirsevimab for infant protection because it targets pre-fusion F protein and extends half-life.
- Give one dose per season to cover infants rather than monthly dosing.
Immunization Is Not Vaccination
- Nirsevimab is passive immunization, not an active vaccine, and targets pre-fusion epitopes.
- Mistaking adult RSV vaccines for pediatric immunization can occur and should be avoided.