RSV impact on elderly highlighted by ROSA study

Recent medical discussions highlight the impact of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) across different age groups. While national immunization campaigns in Portugal have successfully targeted children, experts are questioning why similar state-funded protection is not extended to the elderly and those with chronic illnesses.

The ROSA study, the first national study in Portugal to evaluate RSV impact on hospitalized adults, confirms that the virus is a major cause of severe respiratory infection in vulnerable populations. Findings indicate a hospital mortality rate of 20% for RSV patients, which is higher than the 13% observed in influenza cases. Additionally, RSV leads to higher average hospitalization costs, estimated at €4,757 per episode compared to €3,537 for influenza, alongside greater clinical complications and resource requirements.