RS virus vaccination for older adults and high-risk patients, Digi Mart USA News: Many people associate the RS virus with babies, but it can also be very dangerous for lung patients and older adults. A vaccine exists, but it is not reimbursed and costs about 200 euros.
Doctors are now sounding the alarm, arguing that the shot could prevent considerable suffering, heavy pressure on general practitioners and hospital admissions.
The RS virus (respiratory syncytial virus) is a contagious virus that causes infections of the airways. It circulates especially in autumn and winter.
Most people experience nothing more than a cold, but for older adults and people with fragile health, an infection can have serious consequences.
The virus spreads through small droplets in the air, for example when someone coughs or sneezes. People can also become infected through direct contact with someone who has the virus, or by touching a contaminated surface and then touching their face.
Most adults develop mild symptoms such as a runny nose, coughing, sneezing and sometimes fever. These symptoms usually disappear within one to two weeks.
In some people, however, the virus can reach deeper into the airways and cause pneumonia. In serious cases, hospital admission is required.
Older adults and people with chronic conditions face a greater risk of becoming seriously ill from the RS virus. This includes people with COPD, asthma, heart failure, diabetes or a weakened immune system.
People aged 75 and older and residents of nursing homes also belong to the risk groups. According to Long Alliantie Nederland, an estimated 70,000 people in the Netherlands visit a general practitioner each year with an RS virus infection.
In addition, roughly 6,000 to 7,000 hospital admissions are associated with the virus.
Three RS virus vaccines are currently registered in Europe: Arexvy, Abrysvo and mRESVIA. A single shot trains the immune system to recognize and fight the virus.
The Health Council of the Netherlands recommends vaccination for people aged 75 and older and for certain risk groups from age 60. Vaccination may also be useful for people with a serious lung condition.
The RS virus vaccination is currently not reimbursed. Anyone who wants to be vaccinated must pay the costs themselves.
The vaccine costs about 200 euros, excluding any fees for administering the shot.
Vaccination is available through a general practitioner, the GGD or a vaccination clinic. People should first discuss with their general practitioner or treating physician whether vaccination is sensible in their situation.
Examples of who might be suitable for a vaccine can be found on the relevant official information pages.
How long does the vaccination protect? Protection is expected to last two to three RS virus seasons.
According to the Health Council, its effectiveness decreases over time. It is not yet precisely known when a booster shot will be needed.
In response to a question about the position of the responsible minister on the doctors’ call, the minister’s office provided the following statement.
“I fully understand that doctors call for these medicines to be included in the medicine reimbursement system. As Minister of Health, it is my duty to use available healthcare funds as fairly and effectively as possible for all patients in the Netherlands.
The Dutch Health Care Institute provides independent advice and assesses effectiveness and cost-effectiveness. Once they issue advice early next year, it will be considered whether the vaccines will be included in the programme.”
