On September 16, 2024, the Ministry of Health and Access to Care launched its prevention campaign against bronchiolitis, for the winter period. Vaccination is recommended for infants and the elderly.
Bronchiolitis is caused by a virus (respiratory syncytial virus) which affects the bronchi, particularly those of newborns. It is spread through hands, saliva, coughs and sneezes. Symptoms are characterized by coughing and rapid, wheezing breathing.
Even if the virus more often affects infants, the High Authority of Health (HAS) recommends vaccination for the elderly. According to the HAS, bronchiolitis is one of the leading causes of hospitalization for children under one year old in winter, and in the elderly, the virus can cause respiratory problems.
Bronchiolitis: between Beyfortus or Abrysvo, parents can now choose how to protect their child
New vaccines available for older people
In July 2024, two vaccines obtained marketing authorization for these populations, Arexvy (GSK) and Abrysvo (Pfizer). HAS recommends that people over 75 years old, and people over 65 years old with chronic respiratory pathologies, be vaccinated.
Bronchiolitis: why vaccination of seniors is recommended by health authorities
Vaccination, for whom?
Regarding vaccination, pregnant women between 32 and 36 weeks of amenorrhea can be vaccinated against bronchiolitis by a doctor, a midwife and a pharmacist.
For infants, vaccination is possible by doctors and midwives. According to the PMI of Nièvre, infants born from September 15, 2024 can be vaccinated at the maternity ward.
Finally, for the elderly, they can, if they wish, be vaccinated by a pharmacist or a doctor.
Laura Beignet
