Moderna announced that Health Canada has approved its mRNA vaccine, designed to protect adults aged 60 and older from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), as seen in the provided photo. The Canadian Press
Health Canada has approved Moderna's mRNA vaccine, mRESVIA, for adults aged 60 and older, offering protection against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a respiratory infection that can cause severe illness in older adults. However, the vaccine will not be available until early 2025, according to Moderna's announcement.
The mRESVIA vaccine is the latest addition to a growing list of vaccines aimed at reducing RSV-related illnesses in seniors. Currently, two other vaccines are available in Canada to protect against RSV: Arexvy, developed by GSK, and Abrysvo, created by Pfizer. These vaccines also target older adults and are available for those at higher risk of developing serious complications from the virus.
The approval of Moderna’s vaccine comes amid growing concerns over RSV, which is known to cause seasonal outbreaks, particularly in the colder months. The virus typically circulates from late fall to early spring, leading to respiratory problems that can be serious for vulnerable groups such as seniors. According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, RSV levels in the country are currently at a "moderate" level, based on recent wastewater surveillance.
Earlier this year, the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommended that adults aged 75 and older receive an RSV vaccine. Additionally, seniors aged 60 and above who reside in long-term care or chronic care facilities were also advised to get vaccinated. These recommendations highlight the increased risks posed by RSV to older adults, who may have weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions that make them more susceptible to severe illness from the virus.
In addition to its potential benefits for older adults, Moderna’s mRESVIA vaccine offers a more convenient option for healthcare providers. It is the first RSV vaccine to come in a pre-filled syringe, making it easier for medical staff to administer and reducing the possibility of errors. This feature is expected to save time for healthcare workers and enhance the efficiency of vaccination efforts, especially during the busy RSV season.
As Canada continues to face moderate RSV activity, public health officials are emphasizing the importance of timely immunization. The NACI has stressed that RSV vaccines should be administered just before the start of the RSV season to ensure optimal protection. With the new approval of Moderna’s mRNA vaccine, older adults now have an additional tool to safeguard their health against this potentially dangerous virus.
While mRESVIA won’t be available until next year, it adds to the growing arsenal of vaccines aimed at protecting seniors from respiratory illnesses, including influenza and pneumonia. The upcoming availability of the Moderna vaccine is expected to further bolster efforts to reduce RSV-related hospitalizations and deaths in the vulnerable senior population.
