A new study in JAMA Network Open analyzing 14.8 million Medicare seniors finds RSV vaccines cut RSV-related hospitalization or death by about 80%, underscoring strong effectiveness in older adults.

The performances of the GlaxoSmithKline and Pfizer RSV vaccines align closely with efficacy trial results and remain robust when observed in the broader U.S. elderly population.

Despite disparities in vaccine uptake linked to affluence and concurrent flu and COVID vaccination, analyses that adjust for health care access still show high vaccine efficacy.

Researchers remain uncertain about the necessity and potential antibody dynamics of RSV booster shots, as current evidence does not permit firm booster recommendations.

Beyond RSV, researchers are pursuing vaccines against other viruses (such as parainfluenza) and may move toward broad-spectrum respiratory vaccines that activate innate immunity.