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On 23 August, the Commission authorized the mRNA vaccine ‘mResvia’, to immunise adults over 60 years of age against lower respiratory tract disease, which is caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection. RSV is a common respiratory virus, usually with mild symptoms but has potential serious consequences for vulnerable people, including older adults.
Health and Food Safety Commissioner Stella Kyriakides (pictured) said: “Vaccination saves lives. In a strong European Health Union, we are determined to ensure that everyone has access to the protection that they need against serious diseases. This approval of the first mRNA vaccine against RSV clearly shows the importance of innovation when it comes to protecting the health of our citizens.”
The authorisation of mResvia comes ahead of the autumn/winter season, when respiratory infections such as RSV tend to peak across the EU. It follows a positive scientific assessment by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) in June 2024. It is now up to national authorities in each Member State to decide if and how they will use the vaccine, in line with their national vaccination plans.
mResvia, which was developed by Moderna, is the first mRNA vaccine to be authorised in the EU for a disease other than COVID-19. Other vaccines against RSV were also authorised by the Commission in 2023, to protect vulnerable groups, including infants.
EU REPORT