RSV in Adults: A Hidden and Dangerous Threat

RSV Disease: An Overview RSV, or Respiratory Syncytial Virus, is a contagious virus that infects the respiratory tract, affecting both the upper airways (bronchi) and lower airways (lungs). It spreads through inhalation of droplets from an infected person's cough or sneeze, or by touching contaminated surfaces such as tables and chairs.

Symptoms and Severity While RSV symptoms can resemble those of the common cold, the disease can progress to affect the lower respiratory tract, leading to bronchitis, bronchiolitis, and pneumonia. Symptoms are often more severe in older adults compared to children.

Why is RSV More Recognized in Children than Adults?

• Children often spread RSV in schools and bring it home, infecting family members, including elderly relatives and parents.
• Adults are more susceptible to RSV infection but often go undiagnosed as healthcare providers may test for influenza or COVID-19 instead.
• RSV has no specific treatment and is managed symptomatically. In elderly individuals, who often have comorbidities, the risk of severe illness and death is higher.
• The mortality rate from RSV in adults is approximately 12%, significantly higher than the 0.12% mortality rate in children.

Prevention and Vaccination RSV is highly contagious, so proper prevention measures are crucial. These include frequent hand washing, wearing masks, not sharing personal items, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, maintaining social distance, and getting vaccinated.

RSV Vaccine for Adults Vaccination can help reduce the severity of RSV symptoms and prevent serious infections. This is especially important as there is no specific treatment for RSV. The vaccine is particularly recommended for adults with respiratory conditions such as asthma and COPD, as well as chronic diseases like diabetes and kidney disease.

Vaccination Guidelines for Adults Aged 50 and Above The Adjuvanted RSVPreF3 vaccine, registered in Thailand, stimulates the immune system to protect against lower respiratory tract diseases caused by RSV in:

• Adults aged 60 and older;
• Adults aged 50 to 59 with risk factors for severe RSV-related diseases.

The vaccine is 94.6% effective in preventing lower respiratory tract diseases in high-risk individuals with underlying health conditions.

By understanding and addressing the risks associated with RSV, particularly in adults, we can take significant steps to protect vulnerable populations and reduce the impact of this silent threat.

Reference

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