The Singapore Family Physician

Back to issue Vol 51 No. 4 - Ageing with Vitality

Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccination in Adults: A Brief Update for Primary Care Providers

See Kay Choong
The Singapore Family Physician Vol 51 No 4 - Ageing with Vitality
14 - 17
23 June 2025
0377-5305
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a highly transmissible pathogen that poses a significant risk to older adults and individuals with chronic medical conditions. Two RSV vaccines, Arexvy® and Abrysvo®, are currently approved in Singapore. They are recommended for adults aged 75 years and older, as well as adults aged 60 years and above who have underlying risk factors such as cardiovascular disease, chronic lung disease, chronic kidney disease, diabetes mellitus, immunosuppression, frailty, or residence in long-term care facilities. Arexvy® is also indicated for adults aged 50 to 59 years with similar risk profiles in Singapore. Clinical trials have demonstrated approximately 80 percent efficacy in preventing lower respiratory tract infections in the first year following vaccination. This protection gradually declines to 70 percent at two years and 60 percent at three years. Mild local and systemic side effects are common, while serious adverse events remain rare. Guillain-Barré syndrome has been reported infrequently, with no confirmed causal relationship to the vaccine. Primary care providers play a critical role in improving vaccine uptake by educating patients, addressing concerns, and offering vaccination during routine visits. Yearround vaccination and co-administration with other adult vaccines, such as those for influenza, shingles, and COVID-19, are effective strategies to enhance coverage and protect high-risk populations.