WASHINGTON, United States (CMC) — The Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) says it will provide countries of the Americas, including the Caribbean, with affordable access to the vaccine against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

RSV is a leading cause of paediatric hospitalisation and death from respiratory infections during the first six months of life.

The support will come from PAHO’s Regional Revolving Funds, starting in the first quarter of 2025.

On Friday, PAHO said each year, around 13 million children are born in the region who could benefit from this measure if the vaccine is offered to pregnant women.

In November 2023, PAHO’s Advisory Committee on Immunization (ACIP) recommended administering the vaccine to pregnant women between 32 and 36 weeks of gestation.

“This strategy ensures effective protection for the newborn and reduces the risk of preterm birth,” said PAHO, adding that maternal antibodies provide protection against RSV for about six months after birth, when the risk of severe disease is highest.

Currently, only one vaccine has been approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) to prevent RSV-related diseases in infants. Countries in the region that request it will be able to access it through PAHO next year.

PAHO said its Regional Revolving Funds, with more than 40 years of experience, provide technical cooperation and make consolidated purchases of over 60 quality biological products at affordable prices.