Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common virus that can cause respiratory infections, especially in young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. It spreads through contact with respiratory secretions, and symptoms can range from mild cold-like symptoms to severe pneumonia. Unfortunately, there is currently no approved vaccine for RSV. However, a recent clinical trial has shown promising results for a new vaccine candidate, Ad26.RSV.preF.
In this double-blind, placebo-controlled study, healthy adults between the ages of 18 and 50 were randomized to receive either Ad26.RSV.preF or placebo. After 28 days, the volunteers were intranasally challenged with RSV-A. The researchers then assessed viral load, RSV infections, clinical symptom score, safety, and immunogenicity.
The results of the study were significant. The group that received Ad26.RSV.preF had a lower viral load, fewer RSV infections, and less severe disease symptoms compared to the placebo group. In fact, Ad26.RSV.preF group had no detectable viral load, while the placebo group had a median viral load of 236.0. This was the predefined primary endpoint for the study and the difference between the groups was statistically significant. Additionally, 11 (40.7%) of the Ad26.RSV.preF recipients developed RSV infections, while 17 (65.4%) of the placebo group did. The Ad26.RSV.preF group had lower clinical symptom scores (CSS) for RSV than the placebo group.