With the new school year starting — and flu season right around the corner — it’s a crucial time to remind everyone of the importance of getting recommended vaccines for respiratory diseases. National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM) is an annual observance held in August to highlight the significance of vaccinations for people of all ages. Here are the four key messages of this year’s campaign:
- Vaccines protect against serious diseases.
- These diseases still exist, and outbreaks do occur.
- Vaccines are recommended throughout our lives.
- Vaccines are very safe.
The Link Between Immunizations and Respiratory Diseases
Infectious diseases are caused by germs—viruses, bacteria, or other pathogenic microbes—that can spread through respiratory secretions when a person coughs, sneezes, talks, or laughs. Many of these diseases can be effectively prevented through vaccination.
At alsa Research, we are committed to advancing public health through clinical trials that evaluate the safety and efficacy of vaccines. Our upcoming clinical trials will focus on various vaccines for influenza, COVID-19, RSV, and other respiratory diseases. If you are interested in participating in these trials, we encourage you to learn more about the benefits and impact of immunizations.
1. Influenza (Flu)
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses. Each year, seasonal flu outbreaks lead to a significant number of hospitalizations and deaths, particularly among vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, and those with chronic health conditions.
The Vaccine: The seasonal flu vaccine is formulated annually to protect against the most prevalent strains of influenza. By stimulating the immune system to recognize and fight these strains, the vaccine reduces the risk of flu-related complications and helps limit the spread of the virus.
Impact: Studies consistently show that flu vaccination can reduce the severity of illness, lower hospitalization rates, and decrease mortality associated with the flu. During severe flu seasons, the vaccine is a critical tool in managing public health.
alsa Research will conduct clinical trials for the latest flu vaccines. These trials are essential in ensuring vaccines are safe and effective for diverse populations.
2. Pneumonia
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi can cause. It can range from mild to life-threatening and is particularly dangerous for older adults, young children, and those with weakened immune systems.
The Vaccine: There are two main vaccines for pneumonia: the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) and the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV). PCV protects against several strains of the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae, while PPSV covers additional strains.
Impact: Pneumococcal vaccination has significantly reduced the incidence of pneumonia and invasive pneumococcal diseases (like bacteremia and meningitis). For high-risk groups, such as seniors and those with chronic illnesses, these vaccines are crucial in preventing severe outcomes.
3. COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has underscored the critical importance of vaccines in controlling respiratory diseases. The rapid development and deployment of COVID-19 vaccines have been pivotal in mitigating the pandemic’s impact.
The Vaccine: Several COVID-19 vaccines, including mRNA vaccines (Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna), vector vaccines (Johnson & Johnson), and protein subunit vaccines (Novavax), have been authorized for emergency use and widespread distribution.
Impact: COVID-19 vaccines have proven effective in reducing the severity of illness, hospitalization rates, and death from the virus. They have also contributed to a significant decrease in virus transmission and have been a critical factor in managing the pandemic.
alsa Research will continue to offer clinical trials for next-generation COVID-19 vaccines, aiming to improve efficacy against emerging variants and boost long-term immunity.
4. Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV)
Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) can cause upper and lower respiratory diseases in people of all ages, especially among young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. Symptoms commonly associated with hMPV include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. hMPV, RSV, and influenza can circulate simultaneously during the respiratory virus season.
The Vaccine: Currently, there is no specific antiviral therapy to treat hMPV or vaccine to prevent hMPV. alsa Research is excited to announce that we will soon be recruiting participants for an upcoming hMPV and RSV (outlined below) combination vaccine trial. Trials like these are vital in improving the safety and efficacy of vaccines, particularly for high-risk populations. Contact us to learn more!
5. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a contagious virus that infects the lungs, nose, and throat. It is a common respiratory virus that spreads in the fall and winter, usually peaking in December and January. RSV spreads through respiratory droplets from coughs and sneezes or by touching a contaminated surface and then touching your face. RSV usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms but can be severe for infants and older adults.
The Vaccine: The FDA has approved three vaccines for adults 60 and over, including GSK’s Arexy, Moderna’s mRESVIA, and Pfizer’s Abrysvo. These vaccines work by causing an immune response that can protect you from respiratory disease if you get RSV in the future. The CDC recommends RSV vaccines for all adults 75 years and older and for adults 60–74 who are at increased risk of severe RSV.
Impact: The RSV vaccine can significantly reduce the severity and number of RSV cases, hospitalizations, and deaths. According to Yale Medicine, the vaccine can reduce hospitalization significantly, even if it does not completely prevent the disease. One study found that 66% vaccination coverage in the first year could reduce RSV-related deaths by up to 60.4%, hospitalizations by up to 60.5%, and outpatient care by as much as 53.6%. Increasing vaccination coverage to 100% could reduce those numbers even further.
As mentioned above, alsa Research is excited to announce that we will soon be recruiting participants for an upcoming RSV and hMPV combination vaccine trial.
Conclusion
Immunizations have revolutionized our approach to respiratory diseases, protecting against potentially severe illnesses. From the seasonal flu to COVID-19, vaccines have proven to be a cornerstone of public health, saving lives and improving quality of life. Maintaining and promoting vaccination efforts remains crucial in safeguarding global health and preventing respiratory diseases as we continue to navigate emerging health challenges.
Stay informed, stay vaccinated, and encourage others to do the same. Together, we can continue to make strides in protecting ourselves and our communities from respiratory illnesses.
Interested in participating in a vaccine clinical trial? Visit alsa Research to learn more and to pre-qualify for our upcoming studies.
About alsa Research
alsa Research has two dedicated research facilities in Stamford and Bridgeport, CT. Since 1994, we have been committed to conducting the highest-quality clinical trials to develop, research, and approve new, safe, and effective medications for various indications and diseases. Your participation matters. For more information and to pre-qualify as a participant in a future trial, visit alsaresearch.com.
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