Autumn risk: This is how your vaccination status protects against the RSV virus!

Autumn risk: This is how your vaccination status protects against the RSV virus!

When the days are shorter and cooler, it is not only time for a sweater, but also for increased caution with regard to respiratory diseases. The focus is particularly on the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a treacherous virus type, which can be dangerous for the very small and older fellow citizens. The Health Department Hersfeld-Rotenburg has therefore made an urgent recommendation: Parents and seniors should be informed about the possibilities of immunization.

Stephanie Göpfert, doctor in the health department, urges the possible consequences of RSV. "Serious respiratory diseases that may require intensive care can occur in previously healthy infants," she explains. This warning is particularly relevant, since RSV potentially healthy children can easily affect, which underlines the urgency of the measure.

vaccination recommendations for infants

In order to combat this dangerous viral infection, the constant vaccination commission (STIKO) has made clear recommendations. For newborns and infants, RSV prophylaxis with the antibody should be used. Babies who were born between April and September should be vaccinated between September and November. Newborns who are born during the RSV season in October to March are advised to maintain prophylaxis immediately after birth. "This vaccination can prevent hospital stays and save lives," emphasizes Göpfert.

The recommendation for precaution is not only important for the little ones. Seniors are also part of the risk group. So the STIKO recommends that everyone aged 75 and over to be immunized against RSV with the vaccines Arexvy or Amrysvo. In addition, people of 60 with previous illnesses such as chronic respiratory or heart diseases, diabetes or a weakened immune system are particularly at risk. The risk of severe disease courses can be minimized by vaccination.

Appeal of the health department

The health department urgently appeals to the population to find out more about the vaccination recommendations. Parents of infants and seniors should be advised by their doctors about the possibilities of prophylaxis and vaccination. "Vaccinations protect the weakest in our society," emphasizes Göpfert and encourages active participation in one's own health and that of the protégés.

The importance of these recommendations should not be underestimated. The prevention of respiratory diseases, especially in the cold season, can not only protect those affected, but also relieve health care. Further information on this topic and the specific vaccinations are available on various health platforms, like www.fuldainfo.de to find.