RSV Vaccine Singapore for Elderly Over 60 Available at Healthsprings

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a major concern for older adults, especially those with underlying health conditions. The newly approved Arexvy vaccine by GSK is designed to protect Singaporeans aged 60 and above from serious complications caused by RSV. Approved by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) in May 2024, this vaccine is now available at Healthsprings Medical Clinics.

Why is RSV a Risk for Seniors?

RSV is a contagious virus that causes respiratory symptoms such as a runny nose, fever, cough, and more severe conditions like lower respiratory tract infections. Singapore’s ageing population is particularly vulnerable, especially those with pre-existing health conditions like COPD, asthma, diabetes, and heart disease. Hospitalisation rates due to RSV are high among this group, making vaccination crucial for preventing severe illness.

Who Should Get the Arexvy Vaccine?

The Arexvy vaccine, developed by GSK and approved by Singapore’s Health Sciences Authority (HSA) in May 2024, is recommended for adults aged 60 years and above. This vaccine is administered as a single intramuscular dose and has been shown to be highly effective:

• 94% efficacy in preventing lower airway disease caused by RSV in older adults with at least one underlying medical condition, such as asthma, COPD, diabetes, or congestive heart failure.
• 82.6% efficacy in the overall population aged 60 and above against RSV-related lower airway disease.

Are there any side effects of the Arexvy Vaccine?

Common side effects are injection site pain, fatigue, muscle pain, headache and joint pain. There is a very small risk (1.8 in one million) that this vaccine may cause a neurological condition called Guillain–Barré syndrome, in which a person’s immune system attacks the peripheral nerves. This however is rare. US ACIP confirmed that the benefits of RSV vaccine outweighed the potential risks for adults aged 60 years and older.