AstraZeneca Showcases Key Advances in Respiratory Infection Protection at IDWeek 2024
AstraZeneca is set to present significant new findings on the protection against serious respiratory infections caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), human metapneumovirus (hMPV), and COVID-19 at IDWeek 2024, taking place from October 16-19 in Los Angeles, California. The company will emphasize its commitment to developing novel vaccines and therapies to address infectious diseases with high unmet needs, supported by real-world evidence highlighting the burden of respiratory viral infections.
Iskra Reic, Executive Vice President of Vaccines & Immune Therapies at AstraZeneca, stated, “The data we’re presenting at IDWeek reflect our dedication to combatting infectious diseases. Our progress includes the development of vaccine and antibody candidates like IVX-A12, the first potential combination RSV/hMPV vaccine, and AZD5148 for C. diff infections. The advancement of IVX-A12 underscores our leadership in RSV, and we will show how Beyfortus has made a significant real-world impact in protecting infants against RSV disease.”
Highlights of the Data Presented
- Beyfortus (nirsevimab): AstraZeneca will present data demonstrating that Beyfortus does not interfere with rapid antigen tests for RSV, ensuring accurate diagnoses. Additionally, real-world effectiveness data from Sanofi confirms that Beyfortus significantly reduces RSV-related hospitalizations in infants, with a reported 90% reduction in RSV-associated hospitalizations in its first season.
- IVX-A12: Interim Phase II results of this investigational combination vaccine, which targets both RSV and hMPV in older adults aged 60-85, will also be shared, showing it to be well-tolerated and immunogenic.
- AZD5148: Pre-clinical data will show the potential of this anti-toxin B monoclonal antibody, currently in Phase I trials, to provide protection against Clostridioides difficile infections.
- FluMist: AstraZeneca will present effectiveness data on FluMist, the live attenuated influenza vaccine, recently approved in the U.S. for self- and caregiver administration.
Addressing Respiratory Viral Infections
RSV and hMPV are significant respiratory viruses, particularly threatening to children, older adults, and individuals with underlying health conditions. AstraZeneca’s data will reflect a return to pre-pandemic seasonal patterns for these viruses and emphasize the importance of continued surveillance and the potential for a combination vaccine.
Findings from nursing home studies indicate that hMPV poses similar hospitalization and mortality risks as influenza for high-risk older adults, highlighting the need for improved testing and prevention strategies.
Additionally, updated results from the INFORM study indicate that immunocompromised patients remain at a heightened risk for COVID-19 hospitalization and death, even after receiving multiple vaccine doses, reinforcing the ongoing need for effective protective measures.
Key Presentations at IDWeek 2024
- IVX-A12: Safety and immunogenicity results from a Phase II clinical trial in older adults.
- Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV) Surveillance: Data on global epidemiology and outcomes in nursing homes.
- COVID-19 Studies: Findings on the risks faced by immunocompromised individuals and comparative mortality rates.
About IDWeek 2024
IDWeek 2024 is an annual event organized by several infectious diseases societies, focusing on the latest advances in infectious disease research, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. The event will take place at the Los Angeles Convention Center, with AstraZeneca leading discussions on their advancements in infectious disease protection.
About AstraZeneca
AstraZeneca is a global biopharmaceutical company committed to the discovery, development, and commercialization of innovative medicines across several therapeutic areas, including oncology and respiratory diseases. With its headquarters in Cambridge, UK, AstraZeneca’s products are available in over 125 countries, benefiting millions of patients worldwide.
