RSV poses high risks to infants and seniors

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) remains a significant cause of hospitalization, particularly among infants and the elderly. Experts from the Institute of Mother and Child in Warsaw warn that the virus is highly contagious and can lead to severe conditions such as bronchiolitis, pneumonia, and respiratory failure.

Data indicates that nearly 95% of children hospitalized due to RSV did not exhibit prior risk factors for severe disease. Dr. Alicja Karney, director of the Institute, emphasizes that effective prevention is crucial to reducing the burden on pediatric healthcare systems and hospital resources. The infection season typically peaks between autumn and spring, with high activity noted in January and February.

Transmission often occurs through close contact, with approximately 54.8% of cases in children stemming from their immediate environment, including parents, siblings, and grandparents. While healthy adults may only experience mild, cold-like symptoms, the virus poses a high risk to seniors with chronic illnesses and very young children, who may require oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation.