The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a cautionary alert to clinicians and pharmacists regarding RSV vaccines, following reports of pregnant individuals and infants receiving the wrong shots. Currently, Pfizer’s Abrysvo and GSK’s Arexvy are both authorized for adults over 60 as vaccines against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). However, Abrysvo is the only one approved for pregnant individuals, and neither is sanctioned for young children.
As of January 17, 2024, the CDC has documented 128 instances of pregnant people receiving the incorrect RSV vaccine, along with 25 cases involving children under 2 receiving an RSV vaccine approved solely for adult use.
The CDC emphasized that most administration errors in young children occurred in infants younger than 8 months, primarily in outpatient settings such as doctor’s offices. Additionally, administration errors of the GSK RSV vaccine (Arexvy) in pregnant people were also reported in pharmacies.
While no serious harm or adverse reactions have been reported from these errors, the CDC highlights the limited information on Arexvy’s effects in pregnant women and children since it has not been extensively tested in these groups.
The CDC provides guidance to clinicians and pharmacists, recommending the administration of the monoclonal antibody nirsevimab if infants receive the wrong RSV shot. For pregnant individuals who receive the incorrect shot, the CDC advises against administering another shot. Medical professionals are urged to undergo training on recommendations, carefully check labels, and adhere to storage and administration guidelines.
RSV is highly contagious and poses risks to infants, young children, and certain adults, making accurate vaccine administration crucial for public health. Stay informed for updates on vaccine protocols and safety measures.
