RSV is one of the main causes of lower respiratory tract infection and can lead to serious complications as well as exacerbation of underlying diseases. Worldwide, RSV infection causes around 338,495 deaths annually, with the highest mortality rate in people aged 70 years and older. Complications occur in both early childhood and the elderly population, especially in people aged 75 and older and those aged 60 and older with risk conditions. Currently, RSV disease
is estimated to be underdiagnosed, especially in populations with risk conditions. In the EU, three vaccines are authorized: Abrysvo (for adults ≥18 years and pregnant women in the third trimester), mRESVIA (for adults ≥60 years and for those aged 18–59 at high risk of lower respiratory tract disease caused by RSV), and Arexvy (for adults ≥60 years and for those aged 50–59 at high risk of RSV disease).
There are three authorised vaccines in the European Union: Abrysvo (≥18 years and pregnant women in the third trimester), mRESVIA ≥60 years and 18–59 years with high risk of lower respiratory tract disease due to RSV) and Arexvy (≥60 years and 50–59 years with high risk of RSV disease). "The Evaluation of RSV vaccination in the adult population", published in November 2024 by the Public Health Commission of the Interterritorial Council of the Spanish National Health System, identified the need to expand knowledge on various aspects related to vaccination against RSV in adults. This document has assessed the relevance of introducing routine vaccination against RSV in the adult population aged 75 years and older and in population groups at higher risk of developing severe RSV disease, following the procedure set out in the "Evaluation criteria for modifying the Spanish Vaccination Programme".
This addendum to the document responds to the issues raised, incorporating the scientific and epidemiological evidence available to date, in order to support informed decisions on RSV prevention and control strategies in adults.
