SPONSORED CONTENT
Around the world, there is an urgent need for a vaccine that can prevent respiratory
syncytial virus (RSV). That’s why Pfizer is conducting the C3671006 RSV vaccine study.
Pfizer is committed to developing a safe and effective vaccine to prevent RSV or make it
less severe, with a special focus on protecting infants and older adults.
Because RSV and influenza both occur in the Australian winter, there is a possibility that the flu vaccine and the investigational RSV vaccine may be given at the same time in the future.
By taking part, you could help us learn more about the safety of the vaccine as well as your body’s immune response when it is given at the same time as an annual flu vaccine.
RSV: MORE COMMON THAN YOU THINK
Did you know respiratory syncytial virus (RSV for short) is the second leading cause of
respiratory illness in adults after the flu?
Usually, when healthy adults get RSV, their symptoms are mild and can feel like a cold. However, for some people, especially babies, older adults, and those with heart or lung problems or weakened immune systems, it can be more serious.
RSV infection can cause problems like worsening congestive heart failure (when your heart can’t pump enough oxygen to your body) or pneumonia (an infection of the lungs).
It can also worsen symptoms for people who have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
HOW DOES RSV SPREAD?
RSV is contagious and spreads from contact with a person who has it, often by sneezing, coughing, or kissing. It can also be spread by touching contaminated surfaces, like doorknobs or blankets, and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.
That’s why it’s important to cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze and to always wash your hands especially if you are often around infants, older adults, or people who are
immunocompromised. Like flu season, RSV season usually happens between late autumn and early spring, lasting approximately six to nine months.
WHAT TREATMENTS ARE AVAILABLE?
There are no specific treatments to prevent RSV in adults. Usually, healthy people who get RSV do not need to be hospitalised and get better at home. But some people, especially those who have heart or lung problems or a weakened immune system, may need to be hospitalised if they have trouble breathing or become dehydrated. When this happens, they may be given oxygen through a ventilator (a breathing tube and machine) to help them breathe.
People who are hospitalised with severe illness associated with RSV may be given a medication called ribavirin to attempt to fight the infection. However, this treatment is not always effective and can cause other medical problems.
This is why researchers are working on potential vaccines and medicines to help prevent RSV.
ABOUT THE TRIAL
If enrolled, you will be randomly assigned to one of two study groups:
• Group 1 will receive the investigational RSV vaccine and flu vaccine on the first day of
the study, then placebo one month later.
• Group 2 will receive placebo and the flu vaccine on the first day of the study, then the
investigational RSV vaccine one month later
All participants in this study will receive the investigational RSV vaccine and a flu vaccine. The placebo contains no active ingredients and looks identical to the RSV vaccine.
We use a placebo in this study so participants (and the study team) don’t know whether they have been assigned to Group 1 or Group 2. This study is taking place all across Australia, and if you choose to take part, you will join over 2000 other participants in the fight against RSV.
For more information, click here.
