Global call for access to RSV vaccination for all children worldwide

Utrecht, 26 June – In a joint appeal published in The Lancet, 44 leading scientific and social organisations from across the globe including The Forum of International Respiratory Societies (FIRS)  and its partner organisations, are calling on Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, to take urgent action to save millions of young lives by protecting them against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

GAVI is a global partnership that works to ensure access to life-saving vaccines for children in the poorest countries. In collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF and other partners and donors, Gavi has already saved millions of lives by vaccinating children against other major life-threatening diseases.

RSV is a highly contagious virus that causes serious illness in many young children every year. Worldwide, more than 100,000 children under the age of five die from RSV every year, with 97% of these occurring in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).  Infants under six months old are particularly vulnerable, accounting for approximately 45% of RSV-related deaths.  These deaths and serious illnesses can be prevented by vaccinating mothers or by giving babies protective treatment after birth.