The Impact Of The COVID-19 Pandemic On Respiratory Syncytial Virus

Abstract

See editorial commentary on this article Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is one of many etiologies for acute respiratory tract illness among all age groups. Clinical presentation differs depending on age, health status, and whether the infection is primary or secondary. RSV is the most common cause of lower respiratory tract infection in children under the age of one.[1] Adults, especially those who are older and/or have predisposing conditions, also have high susceptibility. Many viruses cause upper respiratory tract illnesses and induce severe manifestations when affecting the lower respiratory tract.[1] The annual rate of RSV hospitalization is just over 4 per 1,000 among children under the age of five years and is highest among those under six months at 20 per 1,000.[2]