RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) Vaccines
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common but potentially serious respiratory infection that affects both children and adults.
In older adults, RSV can cause bronchitis, pneumonia, and COPD exacerbations. In pregnant women, it can lead to severe infection in newborns during the first months of life.
After decades of research, safe and effective RSV vaccines have finally been developed — a major milestone in respiratory disease prevention.
Affinity Vaccines is preparing to offer the Arexvy® (GSK) and Abrysvo® (Pfizer) vaccines upon regulatory approval in the Philippines, as part of its ongoing commitment to comprehensive adult and maternal immunization programs.
A. Arexvy® (GlaxoSmithKline – GSK)
1. Arexvy® (GSK)
Formulation:
Recombinant RSV prefusion F glycoprotein antigen (RSVPreF3) combined with AS01E adjuvant system (liposome-based adjuvant containing MPL and QS-21).
Packaging:
Two components per dose: lyophilized antigen vial and pre-filled adjuvant suspension syringe.
Each reconstituted dose: 0.5 mL.
Dosage and Administration:
- Adults aged 60 years and older: Single 0.5 mL intramuscular injection.
- May be co-administered with influenza and pneumococcal vaccines at separate injection sites.
- Currently under further study for use in adults aged 50–59 with chronic illnesses.
Indications:
Active immunization for the prevention of lower respiratory tract disease caused by RSV in adults 60 years and older.
Contraindications:
- Hypersensitivity to any vaccine component, including adjuvants.
- Postpone vaccination during acute febrile illness.
Storage / Cold-Chain Requirement:
- Store between +2°C and +8°C.
- Do not freeze.
- Protect from light.
- Use immediately after reconstitution.
Manufacturer:
GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals S.A., Belgium
Status in the Philippines:
Approved in the United States, European Union, Japan, and several other countries. Currently under review by the Philippine FDA for adult use.
B. Abrysvo® (Pfizer, Inc.)
2. Abrysvo® (Pfizer)
Formulation:
Bivalent recombinant RSV prefusion F glycoprotein vaccine, containing antigens from RSV-A and RSV-B strains, non-adjuvanted.
Packaging:
Single-dose vial of lyophilized antigen with pre-filled syringe of sterile water diluent, 0.5 mL after reconstitution.
Dosage and Administration:
- Adults aged 60 years and older: One 0.5 mL intramuscular dose.
- Pregnant women (32–36 weeks gestation): One dose to provide passive immunity to infants during the first six months of life.
Indications:
Prevention of lower respiratory tract disease caused by RSV-A and RSV-B in:
- Adults 60 years and older
- Pregnant women (to protect newborns through transplacental antibody transfer)
Contraindications:
- Hypersensitivity to any component.
- Defer vaccination during moderate or severe illness.
Storage / Cold-Chain Requirement:
- Store between +2°C and +8°C.
- Do not freeze. Protect from light.
- Use immediately after reconstitution.
Manufacturer:
Pfizer, Inc., USA
Status in the Philippines:
Not yet commercially available, but approved in the United States, Europe, and several Asia-Pacific countries for both older adults and maternal immunization.
Corporate and Maternal Vaccination Recommendations
Target Group | Recommended Vaccine | Notes |
Adults aged ≥ 60 years | Arexvy® / Abrysvo® | Prevents RSV-related pneumonia and lower respiratory infections. |
Adults aged ≥ 50 years with chronic lung or heart disease | Arexvy® (off-label where permitted) | Reduces hospitalization risk. |
Pregnant women (32–36 weeks gestation)** | Abrysvo® | Provides antibody protection for newborns up to 6 months. |
Healthcare and eldercare workers | Arexvy® / Abrysvo® | Reduces transmission to vulnerable patients and seniors. |
Affinity Vaccines Recommendation:
Once available locally, Arexvy® will be recommended for adults aged 60 and older, while Abrysvo® will be prioritized for maternal immunization to protect both mothers and infants from RSV.
Cold-Chain and Safety Assurance
All RSV vaccines will be handled under strict +2 °C to +8 °C cold-chain monitoring and administered only by licensed medical professionals in compliance with DOH and FDA standards.
Affinity Vaccines will integrate RSV vaccination into its Corporate Respiratory Protection Programs, alongside influenza and pneumococcal immunization.
Protect Your People. Protect Your Business. Strengthen Your Organization.
RSV poses a growing risk to older adults and infants — but protection is finally within reach.
Affinity Vaccines is ready to introduce Arexvy® and Abrysvo® in the Philippines upon FDA approval, helping organizations and families safeguard their most vulnerable members.
📩 Request for a Corporate Vaccination Proposal
Email: vaccines@affinity.com.ph