The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has published a Drug Safety Update article for July 2025.
This update warns clinicians about a small increase in the risk of Guillain-Barré syndrome following vaccination with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine (Abrysvo® or Arexvy®) in adults aged 60 years and older. There have been 21 case reports submitted to the MHRA on a background of almost 2 million delivered doses. There is currently no evidence of increased risk in pregnant women. Abrysvo is the vaccine in use in the NHS but data from the United States indicates this issue may also affect Arexvy.
Older patients in the NHS Immunisation cohort (aged 75-79years old) should be warned to seek urgent medication attention should they develop neurological symptoms. This would include tingling, numbness or pins and needles usually followed by muscle weakness and difficultly moving joints.
Action: Clinicians should be aware of this month's new guidance and implement any necessary changes to practice.