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Published on: January 26, 2019
Severe RSV Infection Occurring at the End of Nirsevimab's Protection Window: A Case Report
Sebastiano Mazza1, Benedetta Ciccone1, Anna Maddalena D'Apolito1
1Dipartimento Donna e Bambino, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Foggia, Foggia, Apulia, Italy.
Insights
A five-month-old infant developed severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) bronchiolitis despite nirsevimab prophylaxis. This case suggests potential waning immunity near the end of the 150-day protection window, emphasizing the need for ongoing surveillance.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) bronchiolitis is a significant cause of infant hospitalization.
- Nirsevimab is a monoclonal antibody providing passive immunity against RSV.
- Early-life immunization aims to protect vulnerable infants during their first RSV season.
Observation:
- A late preterm infant received nirsevimab on day 3 of life.
- 142 days later, the infant developed severe RSV-A bronchiolitis and human rhinovirus co-infection.
- Hospitalization and high-flow nasal cannula support were required.
Findings:
- The case occurred near the end of nirsevimab's 150-day protection period.
- RSV-A and human rhinovirus co-infection were confirmed by PCR.
- The infant recovered with supportive care.
Implications:
- This case raises concerns about potential waning nirsevimab immunity in early-season immunized infants.
- Human rhinovirus co-infection may exacerbate RSV disease severity.
- Ongoing surveillance is crucial for optimizing nirsevimab immunization strategies in prolonged RSV seasons.
Abstract:
We present the case of a five-month-old late preterm infant who developed severe bronchiolitis caused by respiratory syncytial virus, requiring hospitalisation and high-flow nasal cannula support. This occurred 142 days after the infant received a single dose of nirsevimab as part of the regional immunisation campaign, administered on day three of life. The patient had no underlying conditions. PCR testing revealed RSV A and human rhinovirus co-infection. The infant improved with supportive care and was discharged in stable condition after 8 days. This case raises concerns about possible waning immunity near the end of the expected 150-day protection window of nirsevimab, particularly in infants immunised early in the RSV season. Additionally, co-infection with hRV may have contributed to disease severity. Although nirsevimab remains a highly effective preventive tool, this case highlights the potential for waning immunity near the end of the protection window and suggests that ongoing surveillance is essential to optimize immunization strategies, particularly in regions with prolonged RSV seasons.
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