Protecting Babies: Experts Weigh in on FDA Scrutiny of RSV Shots
Doctors express concerns as the FDA reviews the safety and efficacy of antibody shots that can prevent severe RSV in infants, with drugmakers defending the treatments.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is closely scrutinizing a new class of antibody shots designed to protect infants from a common and sometimes deadly respiratory virus called respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Doctors are voicing their concerns about the potential impact of the FDA's review, even as the drugmakers behind these treatments maintain that they are safe and effective.
RSV is a major threat to young children, especially infants, and can lead to serious complications like pneumonia and bronchiolitis. The antibody shots being evaluated by the FDA are about 80% effective at preventing babies from ending up in intensive care because of RSV. However, some medical professionals worry that the FDA's scrutiny could make these treatments less accessible or even lead to their withdrawal from the market.
Source: NPR
