Vaccination against RSV: Protection for at-risk children started in Styria!

Vaccination against RSV: Protection for at-risk children started in Styria!

The introduction of the new vaccine Beyfortus against the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a significant step forward for many newborns in Styria. The KAGes has been using this special vaccine in the Graz children's clinics and the Hochsteiermark State Hospital since mid-November to protect particularly vulnerable children, such as premature babies and those with congenital heart defects. 100 doses have already been administered in just a short time, with Health Minister Johannes Rauch's decision to expand the national vaccination program to all newborns being strongly welcomed. It is estimated that this could prevent 43 hospitalizations of infants and young children with severe RSV infections every week.

The Dangers of RSV

Respiratory syncytial virus is notorious for affecting the respiratory tract and, unlike adults, can cause serious and even life-threatening illness in children. Transmission occurs primarily through droplet infection and can also occur via contaminated surfaces and objects. According to the information from RKI The RSV season in Austria begins in November and lasts until April, while the majority of infections occur during this period.

The KAGes plans to expand vaccination opportunities for newborns and children at risk in the future. Barbara Plecko-Startinig, deputy medical director of the Graz University Hospital, is optimistic about tackling the causes. The logistics of administering the vaccine are also being intensively prepared in order to be able to meet the needs of parents and children in a timely manner. Johannes Steinhart, President of the Austrian and Vienna Medical Association, had already emphasized the need for a comprehensive vaccination program to meet the challenges of RSV infections.