Respiratory syncytial virus activity--United States, July 2011-January 2013

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health Surveillance

Background:

• Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading cause of lower respiratory infections in infants and young children globally.
• RSV hospitalizations in the U.S. affect an estimated 132,000-172,000 children under five annually.
• RSV circulation typically follows a seasonal pattern in temperate climates, varying by region and year.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze national and regional seasonal trends of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) circulation in the United States.
• To provide data that can inform public health strategies and clinical decision-making regarding RSV prevention and management.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of data from the National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System (NREVSS).
• Examination of RSV season onset and offset dates across different U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) regions.
• Comparison of seasonal patterns over multiple years and identification of regional variations.

Main Results:

• The 2011-12 RSV season onset varied from late October to mid-January, with season offset from early March to early May across most HHS regions.
• Florida exhibited an earlier onset and longer duration compared to other regions.
• By December 15, 2012, the 2012-13 RSV season had begun in nearly all HHS regions, consistent with prior years' patterns.

Conclusions:

• RSV circulation demonstrates consistent seasonal patterns nationally, with predictable regional variations.
• This information is crucial for healthcare providers and public health officials.
• Timely data on RSV circulation aids in optimizing diagnostic testing and the administration of RSV immunoprophylaxis for high-risk children.