57,000 Children Are Hospitalized Annually from RSV: Local Practice Researching New Vaccine

Local physicians are conducting a clinical study testing the safety of an investigational RSV vaccine.

SEATTLE, WA – Over 57,000 American children under the age of five will be hospitalized with RSV this year. Local physicians at Seattle Clinical Research Center are researching a potential new preventative vaccine for RSV. 

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) was identified in 1956. It is one of the most common causes of childhood illness. It causes annual outbreaks of respiratory illness in all age groups. It most commonly causes cold-like symptoms but can also cause lower respiratory infection and pneumonia.

Scientists are developing several vaccines to help protect infants, young children, and pregnant women (to protect the unborn babies) and all adults from severe RSV infection. 

Seattle Clinical Research Center is participating in a vaccine study for non-pregnant women ages 18 – 45. The study is looking at the immune response to the RSV immunization when given along with the Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) vaccine that is routinely given to women toward the end of pregnancy to confer immunity to the infant after birth.

“I am very pleased to participate in this study. My premature twin boys were both hospitalized from RSV when they were just a few months old, many years ago. They survived, but I wish we all could have been spared this experience. I anticipate this vaccine may be incredibly helpful in preventing RSV,” says Gynecologist, Dr. Nancy Tipton, of Seattle Clinical Research Center.

Clinical trials are aiming to advance medicine by evaluating preventative options for common viruses such as RSV. Participating in research can be rewarding for those who want to give back and make a difference.

“Vaccinating moms to prevent infection in their newborns is the ideal way to improve the health of the child,” advises Robin Kroll, MD, director of Seattle Clinical Research Center. Seattle Clinical Research Center is seeking healthy, non-pregnant volunteers to participate in the RSV vaccine study. Qualified participants may receive compensation for time and travel. To learn more about Seattle Clinical Research and how to get involved, click here.

About Seattle Clinical Research Center:

Seattle Clinical Research Center is dedicated to providing exemplary health care for women of all ages. We offer a unique practice that integrates preventative care and medical treatment in addition to cutting-edge research. Our approach creates a standard of excellence in the specialized care of women. The office is led by Robin Kroll, MD, a recognized leader in women’s healthcare and research.

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