An investigational prophylactic vaccine has been launched by the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) for the prevention of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)-mediated lower respiratory tract disease.
The Company’s adenovector platform (AdVac) is utilised by the prophylactic RSV senior vaccine to deliver the gene encoding for the fusion protein of RSV virus as an antigen.
Clinical trials held by Janssen demonstrated substantial improvement compared to the current standard of care.
Currently, the vaccine is in a Phase IIb proof of concept study to investigate the safety and efficacy of the treatment in adults aged 65 years and older.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted its Breakthrough Therapy Designation for the RSV vaccine.
RSV is a highly prevalent and contagious respiratory infection.
It is the most common cause of bronchitis and pneumonia and usually manifests with cold-like symptoms making it difficult to discern from influenza or various respiratory infections.
The medication is intended for adults aged 60 years or older.
