Strategies for Enhancing Healthcare Providers’ Preparedness: Respiratory Syncytial Virus Immunization Updates for Older Adult Populations-Webinar Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The webinar "Strategies for Enhancing Healthcare Providers' Preparedness: RSV Immunization Updates for Older Adults," presented by Drs. Teresa Hupka-Dio and David Garza, focused on the impact of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) in older populations and updated vaccination guidelines. RSV causes significant morbidity and mortality among adults 65+, comparable to influenza, especially in those with chronic diseases, the immunocompromised, and residents in long-term care facilities. Vaccination is now recommended for adults 75+ and for those aged 60-74 with risk factors such as COPD, heart failure, diabetes, or residence in nursing facilities. Three FDA-approved RSV vaccines—recombinant protein and mRNA-based single-dose injections—are available, with administration ideally before the fall/winter RSV season. The RSV vaccine differs from annual flu shots as it is not currently recommended yearly. Osteopathic care emphasizes whole-person treatment, combining vaccination with lifestyle modification, stress management, exercise, and osteopathic manipulative treatments (OMT) to support immune function and respiratory health. Strategies to increase vaccine uptake in vulnerable populations include on-site vaccination in care facilities and patient education. Ongoing research is monitoring vaccine duration and the potential future need for boosters. Co-administration with influenza and COVID-19 vaccines is considered safe and is encouraged to reduce overall respiratory illness burden. Shared decision-making between provider and patient remains essential for effective vaccination implementation.

Keywords

RSV immunization

older adults

RSV vaccines

vaccination guidelines

osteopathic care

vaccine uptake strategies

respiratory health

shared decision-making