APEC Project on
Innovative Immunization Solutions

  • “Monoclonal antibodies are becoming an increasingly important part of the immunization landscape.”

    Dr. Jones, CDC/NCIRD/CORVD, United States

  • "The advantage of a passive approach is immediate protection, and of course the passive approach can be given as active vaccine."

    Dr. Domachowske, SUNY Upstate Medical University, United States

  • "Even though 96% of parents knew about bronchiolitis, only 47% knew about RSV, and only 11% knew about nirsevimab...But once explained, parents were very positive about its use."

    Dr. Perez, Regional MOH, Murcia, Spain

  • “We learned to do things quickly, to not accept the standard timeline for getting things done, and to pivot...the experience with COVID was also very helpful."

    Dr. Santoli, CDC/NCIRD/ISD, United States

About the Project

The project addresses the significant underutilization of prophylactic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), such as those for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) prevention in infants, despite their proven benefits. This underutilization is due to various challenges, including regulatory hurdles, healthcare system readiness, and lack of awareness among policymakers and health practitioners. Additionally, the complicated nature of producing mAbs, as well as logistical challenges of shipping and storing them due to cold chain requirements, further hinder their utilization.

By demonstrating the successful integration of prophylactic mAbs for RSV in Chile and the U.S., the project aims to highlight best practices and demonstrate how these benefits can be similarly applied in other APEC economies, leading to sustained health benefits across the region. Prophylactic immunization with mAbs not only enhances routine health but also strengthens preparedness and response capabilities by reducing the burden of infectious diseases and mitigating potential outbreaks and pandemics. 

APEC Policy Dialogue on
Innovative Immunization Solutions

Prophylactic mAbs can provide protection against infectious diseases, such as RSV in infants, but are not yet widely utilized. This project aims to address this gap by providing a review of existing mAbs and how they can be implemented as innovative immunization solutions to improve health system resilience and impact. Objectives of the project are to:

  1. Enhance understanding of the role of mAbs in routine immunization, especially for infants 

  2. Highlight successful implementation activities & opportunities to leverage existing vaccine access pathways 

  3. Prepare governments, providers, caregivers, and patients for the introduction of innovative immunization solutions to drive their public health agendas and reduce the individual and societal healthcare burden 

  4. Build upon best practices for the use of mAbs for preventing RSV in infants

Disclaimer: This project is a self-funded initiative by the proposing APEC economy, Chile, with the support of co-sponsoring economies. APEC does not provide funding for this project and will not be responsible for any financial, legal, or other liabilities that may arise in relation to this project, including but not limited to those concerning the use, distribution, or administration of vaccines or prophylactic treatments discussed or promoted within the scope of this project. The responsibility for the outcomes and impacts of this project lies solely with the proposing economy and its collaborators.