Why Did the Inactivated RSV Vaccine Increase Disease Severity?

In a mouse model, formalin-killed RSV induced antibodies with low avidity for protective epitopes; adding TLR agonists might solve the problem.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of infection among infants. A formalin-inactivated vaccine was developed in the 1960s but was abandoned when vaccinated children developed enhanced respiratory disease after subsequent exposure to RSV. Some researchers ascribed this lack of protection to formalin disruption of RSV epitopes. However, other nonreplicating RSV vaccines have also triggered aberrant immune manifestations. To examine the situation, investigators developed a mouse model of RSV infection.

After challenge with wild-type RSV, mice that had received inactivated RSV vaccines (including the formalin-inactivated preparation) showed increased airway hypersensitivity. The antibodies induced by these vaccines had much lower…

Reviewing Author

Neil M. Ampel, MD

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Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

Neil M. Ampel, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

Why Did the Inactivated RSV Vaccine Increase Disease Severity?

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Reviewing Author