A new vaccine to protect against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) has recently launched in Malaysia. Here’s what you need to know about who should get it, how it works, and what to expect — from protecting newborns to safeguarding seniors.
WORDS LIM TECK CHOON
WHAT IS RSV AND WHY SHOULD YOU CARE?
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common virus that causes cold-like symptoms in most people.
However, it can be particularly dangerous for 2 groups of people:
- Very young babies (especially those under 6 months)
- Adults over 60
In infants, RSV can cause serious breathing problems, including bronchiolitis (inflammation of small airways in the lungs) and pneumonia. This can lead to hospitalization and, in severe cases, require intensive care.
For older adults, especially those with heart or lung conditions, RSV can also cause severe lower respiratory tract disease that may require medical attention.
| Click here for more information on RSV. |
Recently, the Malaysian National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA) has approved the RSV vaccine ABRYSVO.
WHO IS THIS VACCINE FOR?
ABRYSVO is approved for 2 specific groups in Malaysia:
- Pregnant women (between 24 and 36 weeks of pregnancy) to protect their babies after birth
- Adults aged 60 and older to protect themselves from severe RSV illness
It’s important to note that the vaccine is not given directly to babies or children. For infant protection, only the mother receives the vaccination during pregnancy.
INFORMATION FOR PREGNANT MOMS
How Many Doses
Only 1 dose, given as an injection in the upper arm muscle.
When to Get It?
Between weeks 24 and 36 of pregnancy.
Research shows it works better when given during this period rather than earlier.
Why Mom and Not the Baby?
- Babies under 6 months cannot effectively respond to vaccines because their immune systems are still developing.
- Instead, when a pregnant mother receives the RSV vaccine, her body produces protective antibodies (proteins that fight infection) that cross through the placenta to the baby.
- This gives the newborn ready-made protection from birth.
How Well Does It Work?
Studies on ABRYSVO show that babies born to vaccinated mothers had:
- 69% fewer cases of severe RSV illness requiring medical attention in the first 6 months of life
- 51% fewer cases of any RSV illness requiring medical attention
The protection is strongest in the first 3 months after birth and gradually decreases over the first 6 months.
INFORMATION FOR ADULTS OVER 60
How Many Doses?
Only one dose, given as an injection in the upper arm muscle.
Why Get the Shot?
- As we age, our immune systems become weaker, making us more susceptible to severe infections.
- RSV can cause serious breathing problems in older adults, especially those with existing heart or lung conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or heart failure.
How Well Does It Work?
In clinical studies on ABRYSVO, the vaccine showed:
- 65% reduction in RSV illness with moderate symptoms
- 89% reduction** in RSV illness with severe symptoms
SIDE EFFECTS TO WATCH OUT FOR
Most side effects are mild to moderate and resolve within 2 to 3 days.
For Pregnant Women
- Pain at injection site (41% of women experienced this)
- Headache (31%)
- Muscle aches (27%)
For Adults over 60
- Pain at injection site (11% experienced this)
- Redness or swelling at injection site
Rare but Serious Side Effects
- Severe allergic reactions (very rare)
- Guillain-Barré syndrome (a rare nerve condition) – reported in 1 to 2 cases per study
After taking the shot, contact your doctor if you experience:
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CONCLUSION
- The RSV vaccine represents a new option for protecting vulnerable groups against a common but potentially serious virus.
- If you’re pregnant or over 60, ask your doctor whether the RSV vaccine is right for you.
- They can provide personalized advice based on your health status and help you make an informed decision.
| This article is part of our series on infectious diseases and the vaccines that can protect us from these diseases. |
Reference: Pfizer Malaysia. (2025, August 18). NPRA approves ABRYSVO® Malaysia’s first RSV vaccine to protect both infants (through maternal immunization) and older adults [Press release, KKLIU 2656 / EXP 12022026].
