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Respiratory syncytial virus infections in children and adults
1Oxford Vaccine Group, Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford, Level 4, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK.
Insights
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) significantly impacts young children and vulnerable adults, causing severe respiratory infections. This review covers RSV epidemiology, diagnosis, clinical features, and current/emerging prevention strategies.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of lower respiratory tract infections requiring hospitalization in infants.
- RSV also presents a substantial disease burden in adults, especially the elderly and immunocompromised populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
- To detail the epidemiology, diagnosis, and clinical manifestations of RSV infections.
- To review current and investigational therapeutic, prophylactic, and vaccination strategies for RSV.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of epidemiological data.
- Analysis of diagnostic approaches for RSV.
- Evaluation of clinical case studies and manifestations.
- Assessment of current and clinical trial-stage interventions.
Main Results:
- RSV is the primary cause of pediatric lower respiratory tract infection hospitalizations.
- Significant morbidity and mortality associated with RSV in elderly and immunocompromised adults.
- Various therapeutic and prophylactic options exist, with ongoing development of novel vaccines.
Conclusions:
- RSV poses a critical global health challenge across all age groups.
- Accurate diagnosis and prompt management are essential for mitigating RSV severity.
- Advancements in vaccination strategies hold promise for future RSV prevention.
Abstract:
Respiratory syncytial virus is the leading cause of hospital admission for lower respiratory tract infection in young children and appears to be responsible for a significant burden of disease in adults, particularly the elderly and the immunocompromised. In this review, we describe the epidemiology, diagnosis and clinical manifestations of infection attributed to this virus. We also consider current therapeutic and prophylactic options and appraise strategies for vaccination that are in clinical trials.