Ever since the Trump Administration has taken over, it is no news that new developments have been made in the health sector. As of now, a federal vaccine advisory panel in the US has made several new recommendations that will expand vaccine coverage for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), meningitis, and chikungunya. These suggestions claim to better protect vulnerable groups, including older adults, teens, and travellers.While these recommendations are still awaiting the approval from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), they have signalled a proactive approach towards preventing serious infectious diseases.What all did the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) propose?Expanded RSV Vaccination for AdultsOf many, one of the key recommendations was to extend RSV vaccination to adults aged 50 to 50, especially for those who have certain health conditions. RSV is a common virus that usually causes mild cold-like symptoms.However, the concern with older adults and people with chronic illnesses like heart disease, diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), having RSV can further elevate the illness, lead to hospitalization, and even death.Previously, RSV vaccines were mainly recommended for people aged 60 and above. The proposed expansion thus looks at the growing concern that adults in their 50s with comorbidities are also at a higher risk of complications with RSV infection. The change would make it possible for more people to receive the preventive care that is important for them during the peak RSV season, like fall and winter.A New Combination Shot for MeningitisThe panel also endorsed a new vaccine developed by GSK that protects against five strains of meningococcal bacteria - a significant development in the fight against meningitis.It is an inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It is often caused by infection. Bacterial meningitis, especially meningococcal meningitis, can progress quickly and has serious consequences, including brain damage, hearing loss, and death if not treated swiftly.Teenagers and young adults, especially those in group living situations like college dorms, are particularly vulnerable. The newly recommended combination shot also includes coverage for a strain that has earlier caused many college campus outbreaks. The outbreaks had been caused about a decade ago. This shot would also add to existing vaccine options, offering broader protection in a single dose.Chikungunya: Who Will Be Getting The Shot?The committee also recommended adding a second chikungunya vaccine, especially for travellers who are aged 12 or older. It is a viral disease that is spread by mosquitoes in tropical and subtropical regions. While the disease itself is rarely fatal, it can cause severe joint pain, fever, and fatigue. The pain can last for weeks or even months.The addition of another vaccine gives travellers more choices to prevent infections as international travel increases. The panel also added a precaution for an older chikungunya vaccine that uses a live but weakened virus: people aged 65 and older should weigh the benefits and potential risks, especially after reports of adverse reactions in older adults with preexisting conditions. An investigation into those cases is ongoing.