Real-World Evidence Evaluation of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Vaccines: Deep Dive into Vaccine Adverse Events Reporting System

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Authors: Thamir M. Alshammari, Mohammed Khalaf Alshammari, Hind M. Alosaimi
Cited by: 2
References: 44

Abstract

Background: Respiratory Syncytial Virus is a predominant source of morbidity and mortality, particularly among babies, the elderly, and immunocompromised patients. Recent developments in RSV vaccines, approved by the FDA for high-risk groups, have highlighted the necessity for post-marketing surveillance to evaluate their real-world safety and efficacy. Method: This study utilized data from the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) covering RSV vaccine administration between 2023 and May 2025. The VAERS database reported data on vaccine types, including Arexvy®, Abrysvo®, and mRESVIA® was analyzed for adverse events and vaccination errors. The demographic information, vaccination trends, and hospitalizations post-vaccination among the vaccinated individuals were accessed. Results: The analysis revealed that the most common adverse events were mild, such as injection site pain, erythema, fatigue, and extremity pain. The data also showed a gradual increase in hospitalization rates from 4.8% in 2023 to 7.5% in 2025. Vaccination errors, including inappropriate administration during pregnancy and excess doses, were also observed. A notable trend was the growing proportion of patients who experienced no adverse events, with the highest rate of symptom-free reports seen in 2025 (25.9%). Conclusions: RSV vaccines demonstrate a generally acceptable safety profile based on post-marketing surveillance data. However, the observed increase in hospitalization rates, vaccination errors, and pregnancy-related outcomes warrants continued active surveillance and cautious interpretation.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Respiratory viral infections research COVID-19 Impact on Reproduction SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 Research

Publication details

Journal / source
Diseases
Publisher
MDPI AG
Volume
14
Issue
1
Pages
29–29
Publication date
9 January 2026
Language
EN