[Recommendations on the use of palivizumab: update 2023]

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Infectious Diseases
• Immunology

Background:

• Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) remains a significant cause of severe lower respiratory infections and hospitalizations in infants.
• The epidemiology of RSV has evolved, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Palivizumab, a monoclonal antibody, is crucial for preventing severe RSV disease in high-risk populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To update recommendations for palivizumab use in Argentina based on recent scientific literature.
• To review the current epidemiology of RSV in the country.
• To delineate high-risk patient groups, optimal dosing, and future therapeutic strategies for RSV prevention.

Main Methods:

• Bibliographic review of recent publications on palivizumab and RSV.
• Analysis of RSV epidemiology in Argentina, considering the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Discussion of clinical guidelines for palivizumab indication based on underlying conditions.

Main Results:

• RSV continues to be a major public health concern, necessitating updated preventive strategies.
• Specific high-risk pediatric groups are identified for palivizumab prophylaxis.
• Current evidence supports palivizumab's role in reducing severe RSV outcomes in eligible infants.

Conclusions:

• Updated recommendations for palivizumab use are essential for managing RSV in high-risk infants.
• Continued surveillance of RSV epidemiology is crucial, especially in the post-pandemic era.
• Further research into novel therapeutic options for RSV prevention and treatment is warranted.