Italian RSV vaccination campaign delayed

The distribution of Nirsevimab, a novel monoclonal antibody developed for passive immunization against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in infants, will commence in Italy within the next few days, according to the manufacturer, Sanofi Winthrop Industrie. The manufacturer has indicated that the scheduled immunization campaign will be postponed until October 28. Furthermore, the company has allocated doses for Italy to achieve approximately 75% coverage of the country’s entire birth cohort, based on scientific data about the product’s efficacy and epidemiological impact. The pharmaceutical company’s statement was issued in response to a request from the regions that had previously contacted the Italian Ministry of Health and the Italian Medicines Agency (AIFA) regarding the drug’s availability. Sanofi has indicated that, at this time, it cannot meet the demand for comprehensive vaccine coverage of the Italian neonatal population, particularly in light of the rising global demand for the monoclonal antibody Nirsevimab.