Scientists are optimistic that a winter virus jab for babies could alleviate the strain on healthcare systems, particularly the National Health Service (NHS), following the results of a large clinical trial.
The Harmonie study has demonstrated that a single shot of nirsevimab can reduce hospital admissions related to Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) by over 80%, offering a potential solution to a common seasonal virus affecting 90% of children worldwide before the age of two.
Babies at Risk
RSV is known to cause mild cold-like illnesses in some babies, but for others, it can lead to more severe respiratory problems such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia.
The Harmonie study, led by scientists at University Hospital Southampton, the University of Southampton, and St George’s University Hospital in London, has shown that a single shot of nirsevimab provides immediate protection against RSV.
While the treatment was approved in the UK last year, experts suggested additional research was necessary before its integration into the NHS.
Currently being rolled out in the US and Spain this winter, there are considerations for implementing the treatment in the UK as part of a national RSV immunization program.
The trial, funded by Sanofi and AstraZeneca, involved 8,058 babies up to the age of 12 months. Infants were randomly assigned to receive either a single dose of nirsevimab by injection or standard-care treatment.
Read more: Alabama’s Transgender Care Ban Faces Trial Following Judge’s Decision
Virus Breakthrough
The results, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, indicate an 83% reduction in RSV-related hospital admissions for the group receiving nirsevimab.
Professor Saul Faust, co-study leader at the University of Southampton, emphasized the potential impact of the long-acting antibody, stating, “These latest results show that this long-acting antibody is safe and could protect thousands of babies from hospitalization when used in conditions similar to routine clinical practice. A single shot can help stop babies from getting chest infections for up to six months.”
The research findings have garnered positive reactions from experts in the field. Professor Calum Semple of Child Health and Outbreak Medicine at the University of Liverpool and respiratory consultant at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital described the results as “a splendid result for babies.”
Sir Andrew Pollard, director of the Oxford Vaccine Group at the University of Oxford, highlighted the significance of the study in addressing the substantial burden on the healthcare system caused by RSV-related hospital admissions.
Read more: Montana’s Changing Seasons: El Niño’s Ripple Effect On Outdoor Fun And Local Businesses
