Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of respiratory disease in infants throughout the world, and a leading cause of hospitalizations and death in this population. Older individuals and those with underlying medical conditions, including immunocompromised individuals, are also at high risk for severe disease. Recent advances in understanding the pathogenesis of disease have led to the development of RSV vaccines and monoclonal antibodies to prevent RSV disease in older individuals and young children, likely changing the landscape of RSV disease significantly. Future research is needed to further understand efficacy of these tools in other populations, namely immunocompromised individuals, and to develop additional therapeutic options.

After viewing this lecture, participants should be able to:
1. Describe historical and current epidemiologic trends of RSV disease
2. Summarize currently available prevention and treatment options for RSV disease
3. Explain limitations of current therapeutic strategies for RSV disease

Alpana Waghmare, MD
Associate Professor, Infectious Disease & Virology
Department of Pediatrics
University of Washington School of Medicine
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
Seattle Children’s Hospital

10/25/23