Patient equity and respiratory syncytial virus Immunoprophylaxis

An analysis of benefit and cost is critical for independent advisory groups that provide evidence-based recommendations. In many countries, the role of RSV immunoprophylaxis for infants at increased risk of hospitalization is controversial because of limited benefit and high cost. The report by Ginsberg and co-workers provides evidence, that in Israel, despite the potential benefit of palivizumab prophylaxis in reducing a small number of RSV hospitalizations but no evidence of long-term benefit, the cost is difficult to justify. Ideally, a safe and effective RSV vaccine or more effective and less expensive monoclonal antibody soon will become available.