Preliminary Findings: RSV Vaccines Potentially Linked to Rare Nerve Disorder Risk

Early Data Points to Possible Guillain-Barré Syndrome Risk with RSV Vaccine

Recent data suggest new RSV vaccines might slightly increase the risk of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS). This information comes from the CDC and FDA.

Experts shared these findings at an Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices meeting. They noted a higher GBS rate in those vaccinated with Pfizer's RSV vaccine. GSK vaccine recipients also reported cases.

Help support my independent journalism by becoming a paid subscriber for only $5 a month. Leave at any time. I left my job in the MSM after 25 years to work for all of you.

However, it's too early to confirm a real increase in GBS risk from these vaccines. Tom Shimabukuro, a former CDC official, emphasized the preliminary nature of this data. He mentioned the small number of cases and doses involved. The CDC plans a more detailed analysis in March.

GBS causes muscle weakness and sometimes paralysis. It usually follows a viral or bacterial infection. It's more common in those over 50. Some vaccines have been linked to a small rise in GBS risk.

Click here to learn more about the RSV vaccine.

After the RSV vaccines' release, three GBS cases were found in clinical trials. Safety monitors are watching for more cases through the VAERS system. So far, 23 GBS cases have been verified among 9.5 million vaccinated people. Most were after receiving Pfizer's vaccine.

Pfizer and GSK are studying the GBS risk in vaccine recipients. Despite the concerns, CDC analysis still supports vaccinating those 60 and older. The vaccines prevent many RSV hospitalizations and deaths. The CDC continues to evaluate the vaccines' safety and usage recommendations.