RSV is common and causes symptoms similar to a cold. The virus is usually mild, but older people, young children and those with a weakened immune system can become very ill. 

There’s no specific treatment for RSV, and, until recently, no effective preventative vaccines were available.

UK-lead

ConquerRSV tested Moderna’s mRNA-1345 vaccine in people aged 60 and over. Dr Christopher Duncan, from Newcastle University, was UK lead for the trial.

In Newcastle, more than 80 patients took part in the trial, which was delivered by infectious diseases research team and ran from the National Institute for Health and Care Clinical Research Facility, located at Newcastle's Royal Victoria Infirmary.

Patients were randomly allocated into groups to either receive the trial drug or a saline placebo. The trial was double-blinded, meaning patients and healthcare staff did not know which had been administered.

The trial results, recently published in the New England Journal of Medicine, show that the vaccine effectively prevented against RSV-associated lower respiratory tract disease compared to the placebo dose. The vaccine was generally well tolerated, and no safety concerns were identified.

Protecting patients

Dr Christopher Duncan, who also works at Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Despite considerable efforts over the last 30 years, an effective vaccine for RSV has, until recently, remained elusive. This trial, alongside other recent progress, marks a critical step in being able to offer protection to people who need it most.

“We are extremely grateful to everyone who took part in the trial and willingly volunteered their time. My thanks also go to the Infectious Diseases Research Team who set up and delivered the trial at pace.”

Moderna is anticipating application for licensure of mRNA-1345 in 2024. In the UK, the Joint Committee for Vaccination and Immunisation has recommended to the UK government that an NHS RSV vaccination programme be initiated.