A recent study published in JAMA Network Open highlights the impact of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) on previously healthy babies. While RSV is known to pose a threat to preterm infants and those with underlying medical conditions, this research reveals that even full-term, healthy babies can become seriously ill.
Dr. Natasha Halasa, lead author of the study and professor of pediatric infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, emphasizes the severity of RSV in young infants. She notes that while the virus is widespread and infects most children by the age of 2, identifying which babies will experience severe illness remains challenging.
The study, which examined data from 600 infants across 39 hospitals in 27 states, revealed that a significant majority of babies admitted to the intensive care unit with RSV were born at term and did not have underlying medical conditions. Most of these infants were very young, with a median age of 2.6 months. Shockingly, 24% of these babies required intubation to assist with breathing, and two infants tragically lost their lives.
Dr. Angela Campbell, senior investigator at the CDC’s Coronavirus and Other Respiratory Viruses Division, emphasized the need for preventive strategies for all infants in light of these findings. RSV infections result in approximately 2 million doctor visits, 80,000 hospitalizations, and up to 300 deaths in children under the age of five each year.
RSV typically peaks during the fall and winter seasons, spreading rapidly in schools and daycare centers. It poses a significant risk to small children, as it can cause pneumonia or bronchiolitis by infecting the lower lungs and obstructing airways.
The study also highlights the impact of pandemic mitigation measures on RSV cases. During the COVID-19 pandemic, RSV and other respiratory viruses were significantly reduced due to measures such as mask-wearing and social distancing. However, as these measures have eased, RSV cases have surged, primarily affecting young children who were exposed to the virus for the first time.
While the 2023-2024 RSV season remains uncertain there is hope in the form of a newly approved monoclonal antibody injection called Beyfortus. This preventive drug, approved by the FDA, can reduce the risk of RSV for five months, the duration of an average RSV season. The American Academy of Pediatrics has recommended that all infants receive Beyfortus, emphasizing the importance of equitable access.
Additionally, an FDA advisory panel has recommended the approval of an RSV vaccine for pregnant women, providing another promising preventative option.
Overall, this study serves as a crucial reminder of the threat RSV poses to healthy babies and the urgent need for preventive measures to protect all infants.
For parents looking for ways to reduce their baby’s chances of getting RSV outside of vaccinating them. Here are 4 tips:
- Wash Your Hands – It is also important to wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after coming into contact with someone other people or after changing diapers. If a sink is not close, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer can also be used. This will help to reduce the spread of germs that can cause RSV infection.
- Avoid Contact With Sick People – It is also important to avoid contact with people who have colds or other respiratory illnesses, as they may be carrying the virus that causes RSV. If you do come into contact with someone who is sick, it’s important to wash your hands afterward and keep your distance from them until they are feeling better.
- Keep Babies Away From Crowded Places – Babies should also be kept away from crowded places such as daycares, playgroups, and shopping centers during cold and flu season as these places can be breeding grounds for germs that can cause RSV infection.
- Practice Good Hygiene Habits At Home – Finally, it is important to practice good hygiene habits at home by regularly cleaning surfaces such as countertops and toys with disinfectant wipes or sprays that are designed for use on children’s items.
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