RSV drives rising pediatric hospitalizations in Paraguay and Argentina

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) has emerged as a leading cause of hospitalizations across South American regions, particularly affecting pediatric populations. In Paraguay, RSV is the primary driver of hospital admissions over the last four weeks, especially among children under two years old. Health surveillance reports indicate the co-circulation of Metapneumovirus, Rhinovirus, Adenovirus, and Influenza. Recent data shows 1,423 hospitalizations for acute respiratory infections, with 16% of patients requiring intensive care. The report also confirmed 28 deaths associated with various respiratory viruses.

In Argentina, RSV is driving a sustained upward trend in bronchiolitis cases, becoming the top reason for pediatric emergency and intensive care admissions. The National Epidemiological Bulletin reports over 65,000 cases of bronchiolitis and 2,267 hospitalizations linked to RSV detection. Infants under one year old remain the most vulnerable group. In response, the province of Córdoba has implemented a strategy using approximately 10,000 doses of nirsevimab, a long-acting monoclonal antibody, to protect newborns and high-risk infants.