WEALTH October 26, 2025 0 Comments

Unlocking Winter’s Secret Weapon: The Bold New Move Set to Revolutionize RSV Defense and Skyrocket Health Innovation

Ever wondered how a virus like Respiratory Syncytial Virus—better known as RSV—could slip right under the radar while flu and Covid grab all the headlines? It’s wild when you think about it: a recent Pfizer survey reveals that a whopping two in five people haven’t even heard of RSV, and only 18% claim to really know what it is. Now, here’s the kicker—this virus isn’t some distant shadow lurking in the background. It hits hardest for those over 65, a group that’s expected to top one million here in Ireland by 2030. Yet, their awareness? Shockingly low. Orlaith Gavan from Pfizer Healthcare Ireland puts it bluntly: RSV is “an underestimated threat,” and most folks—plus their carers—are flying blind. With flu and pneumonia stealing the spotlight, RSV’s real danger is being overlooked, even though it causes severe complications and hospitalizations every winter. So, how do we flip the script on this silent menace and get folks vaccinated before it’s too late? The time for RSV awareness is now… and fast. LEARN MORE

Pfizer survey reveals lack of awareness of infection, writes Sarah Freeman

New research shows that awareness of the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) among key vulnerable groups is extremely low, with just 18 per cent of respondents claiming to know a lot about the condition.

The study, from Ipsos B&A and commissioned by Pfizer, found that two in five of those surveyed have either never heard of RSV or are only familiar with the name.

Furthermore, just one in four respondents who care for an older person know a lot about the virus.

It appears there is significantly greater awareness about the flu and Covid viruses among those surveyed.

With the number of adults aged 65 and over in Ireland set to exceed one million by 2030, this poses a particular public health awareness challenge.

Orlaith Gavan, country medical director for Pfizer Healthcare Ireland, describes RSV as “an underestimated threat to older adults and high-risk individuals”.

She adds: “Our research shows this clearly as only 8 per cent of respondents believe they have ever had RSV, when almost everyone has been infected at some point.

“While RSV infection is often routine, it is important that those at higher risk, particularly older adults, understand the threat it poses.

“Our findings show that they do not and neither do their carers.

“Most people are more familiar with flu, which has been shown to have a similar mortality rate to RSV, or are more concerned about pneumonia, which can in some cases be caused by RSV infection.

“Greater awareness of RSV will help ensure it is recognised alongside these other serious winter illnesses.”

The respiratory virus, while very common, can cause severe complications in adults over the age of 65, including pneumonia and the worsening of underlying conditions.

It is a major cause of hospitalisations and admissions to intensive care each winter, with older adults and their carers most at risk of serious illness after contracting it.

The National Immunisation Advisory Committee, which provides independent, evidence-based advice on immunisation policies to the health minister, has recommended that all adults aged over 65 should be vaccinated against RSV.

There is great support for an immunisation programme, with 85 per cent of those surveyed of the opinion that the vaccine should be free of charge.

However, the Pfizer study found just 18 per cent are aware that such a vaccine is available.

Several European countries, including Germany and Sweden, have made vaccines available free of charge for older adults.

Last year, a programme in Scotland offered a free RSV vaccine to people aged 75 to 79. The uptake was almost 69 per cent.

This resulted in a 62 per cent drop in RSV-related hospitalisations. In Ireland, the HSE introduced RSV immunisation for newborn babies in 2024, with the programme now running each winter.

Professor James Chalmers, Asthma and Lung UK Chair of Respiratory Research, University of Dundee, notes that “the Covid-19 pandemic has shown the importance of protecting ourselves from respiratory viruses”.

He adds: “Alongside hygiene, masks and managing health conditions, vaccination provides proven protection against severe illness and is a significant step forward for older adults.”

The Health Information and Quality Authority is currently conducting a health technology assessment of immunisation of adults aged 65 and older against RSV.

The primary objective is to advise the health minister and the HSE on the most appropriate RSV immunisation strategy for infants and or adults aged 65 and older in Ireland for the 2026- 2027 and subsequent RSV seasons.

Photo: Deborah Costello, Friends of the Elderly with MC Joe Duffy and Orlaith Gavan, Country Medical Director of Pfizer Healthcare Ireland. Picture Jason Clarke