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Updated: Jan 9, 2026
09:01
An In vitro Model to Study Immune Responses of Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells to Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection
Published on: December 10, 2013
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RSV epidemiology in Italian adults over 60: a multicenter cross-sectional study
Federica Novazzi1, Laura Pellegrinelli2, Federica A M Giardina3
1Department of Medicine and Innovation Technology, University of Insubria (DIMIT), Varese, Italy; Laboratory of Medical Microbiology and Virology University Hospital of Varese, Varese, Italy.
Summary
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) significantly impacts older adults, but data from Italy is limited. This study reveals seasonal RSV circulation in adults aged 60+, emphasizing the need for testing and prevention strategies.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) poses a significant public health threat, especially to children and the elderly.
- The specific burden of RSV in older adults in Italy is not well-documented, leading to potential underestimation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the molecular detection and circulation patterns of RSV in respiratory samples from Italian laboratories.
- To assess the prevalence and seasonality of RSV infections in adults aged 60 years and above.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of molecular RSV detection data from 13 Italian laboratories (September 2021 - May 2023).
- Inclusion of data from respiratory samples across Italy, covering diverse geographical regions.
- Calculation of RSV positivity rates overall and specifically for adults aged ≥60 years.
Main Results:
- A total of 138,783 tests were analyzed, with an overall RSV positivity rate of 6.4%.
- In adults aged ≥60 years, the RSV positivity rate was 3.5%, representing 35.4% of all positive cases.
- Two distinct epidemic waves were identified, peaking in December 2021 and January 2023, with RSV-B being the predominant subtype.
Conclusions:
- RSV demonstrates significant seasonal variability in older adults, highlighting the importance of targeted surveillance.
- Findings support the need for increased testing and awareness of RSV in the elderly population.
- The data can inform public health strategies, including clinical management and the development of preventive measures like vaccination.
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