Respiratory Syncytial Virus, or RSV is usually felt like an ordinary cold. But it’s more risky for people over 60 year old as well as infants. Last year was the first year that older adults could get an RSV vaccine, and this is the first year infants can get immunized too.
Sarah Aho, the immunization program manager for the state Alaska, stated that the new vaccine against RSV, Nirsevimab, can cut the risk of hospitalization by 80percent.
“That is a staggering decrease,” Aho said. “No person would like to have their child in an emergency room, and they is when they’re struggling to breathe and even death. This is why I believe that Nirsevimab could be an amazing tool has never been used before and is available to every child who live in Alaska.”
Nirsevimab is recommended for infants less than 8 months old and up to 19 months for infants who are at risk -such as those who have an immune disorder are suffering from lung disease, cystic fibrosis, or have American Indian or Alaska Native family heritage.
Aho added that Alaskans can anticipate new COVID vaccines mRNA in Alaska within the next week. She added that the vaccinations no longer count as to be boosters and are instead a year-long formulation.
“You could think of it like the flu vaccine, which is changed every year to reflect the kind of response scientists expect to observe in communities,” said Aho. “That’s similar to what been happening this fall with COVID vaccines this autumn.”
Aho claimed that the National advisory committee on vaccination practices discussed whether to suggest this vaccine only for people who are at a high risk of developing complications from COVID. In the end, they chose to recommend it to all people aged 6 months and over.
Aho reported that flu vaccines are in the state, and this year, seniors are able to receive a higher dosage of vaccine, giving your immune system “extra boost in protection.” The younger age group of 2 and older than 65 are among the groups who are the most vulnerable to flu.
Aho advised that for prevention, Alaskans should take the normal precautions. That includes washing hands, staying at home when sick, staying away from sick people as well as covering up your cough and avoiding touch your face. Also, Aho admitted that it’s still too early to tell if this winter is an unpleasant one for viral and infections.
She advised that people find the nearest vaccination clinic by calling their local pharmacy or visiting vaccinate.alaska.gov or vaccines.gov.
