The Road to RSV Vaccines in the US: A Timeline Topline

Current vaccines against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) have a long history that began with tragedy in the mid 1960s when children were sickened by an inactivated form of the virus being evaluated in clinical trials. In one study, 80% of the children were hospitalized and there were 2 fatalities. Research stagnated for the 2 decades that followed as investigators searched for the elusive answer to neutralizing the virus.

The breakthrough happened in the mid-2010s when NIH scientists published structural data on the RSV F protein in its prefusion conformation—critical for neutralizing antibodies. This discovery paved the way to the new development strategies that have produced 3 potent vaccines against RSV and protection for all adults aged 75 years and older and for those aged 60 to 74 at increased risk for severe disease. As of this writing, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices of the CDC has also recommended the shot for adults aged 50 to 59 years at increased risk of RSV-associated lower respiratory tract disease. Currently that incudes Abrysvo (Pfizer) which in October 2024 was approved by the FDA for adults aged 18 to 59 years.