Respiratory Syncytial Virus: A WAidid Consensus Document on New Preventive Options

Matteo Riccò, Bahaa Abu-Raya, Giancarlo Icardi, Vana Spoulou, David Greenberg, Oana Falup Pecurariu, Ivan Fan Ngai Hung, Albert Osterhaus, Vittorio Sambri, Susanna Esposito

    Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

    Abstract

    Background/Objectives: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading cause of respiratory infections, particularly affecting young infants, older adults, and individuals with comorbidities. Methods: This document, developed as a consensus by an international group of experts affiliated with the World Association of Infectious Diseases and Immunological Disorders (WAidid), focuses on recent advancements in RSV prevention, highlighting the introduction of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and vaccines. Results: Historically, RSV treatment options were limited to supportive care and the monoclonal antibody palivizumab, which required multiple doses. Recent innovations have led to the development of long-acting mAbs, such as nirsevimab, which provide season-long protection with a single dose. Nirsevimab has shown high efficacy in preventing severe RSV-related lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) in infants, reducing hospitalizations and ICU admissions. Additionally, new vaccines, such as RSVpreF and RSVpreF3, target older adults and have demonstrated significant efficacy in preventing LRTIs in clinical trials. Maternal vaccination strategies also show promise in providing passive immunity to newborns, protecting them during the most vulnerable early months of life. This document further discusses the global burden of RSV, its economic impact, and the challenges of implementing these preventative strategies in different healthcare settings. Conclusions: The evidence supports the integration of both passive (mAbs) and active (vaccines) immunization approaches as effective tools to mitigate the public health impact of RSV. The combined use of these interventions could substantially reduce RSV-related morbidity and mortality across various age groups and populations, emphasizing the importance of widespread immunization efforts.

    Original languageEnglish
    Article number1317
    JournalVaccines
    Volume12
    Issue number12
    DOIs
    StatePublished - 1 Dec 2024

    Keywords

    • lower respiratory tract infections
    • maternal immunization
    • monoclonal antibodies
    • nirsevimab
    • RSV
    • RSV vaccine

    ASJC Scopus subject areas

    • Immunology
    • Pharmacology
    • Drug Discovery
    • Infectious Diseases
    • Pharmacology (medical)

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