Protecting Infants: Understanding and preventing Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
Respiratory Syncytial Virus, commonly known as RSV, poses a notable threat to infants and young children, particularly as a leading cause of acute respiratory infections. While many cases present as minor illnesses, the potential for severe complications necessitates proactive preventative measures. According to the Ministry of Health, it is estimated that 20-30% can develop low respiratory commitment, such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia, during prime and evolve to perhaps serious forms.
the Global Impact of RSV
Globally,RSV is responsible for a staggering number of infant hospitalizations and deaths. Each year, the virus causes more than 45,000 deaths and 1.4 million hospitalizations in babies under six months. In Argentina, the impact is particularly acute, with RSV contributing to a third of deaths in children during their first year of life. This underscores the critical importance of vaccination strategies, especially for pregnant women.
Mendoza’s Proactive Vaccination Campaign
Recognizing the severity of the threat, Mendoza initiated a robust vaccination campaign targeting pregnant women between 32 and 36 weeks and 6 days of pregnancy.This initiative aims to protect newborns by transferring vital antibodies through the placenta.
Understanding RSV Transmission
RSV primarily spreads through respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Transmission can also occur through contact with contaminated surfaces, followed by touching the nose, eyes, or mouth. This highlights the importance of diligent hygiene practices, especially during peak seasons.
The Importance of Maternal Vaccination
Vaccinating pregnant women against RSV is a strategic approach to safeguarding newborns. The goal is to transfer protective antibodies across the placenta, providing infants with crucial immunity from birth. According to the Goverment of mendoza, studies indicate that the effectiveness of the vaccine against severe disease is 81.8% in the first 90 days of life.
Global Recommendations and Benefits
The World Health Organization (WHO) advocates for the global implementation of maternal RSV vaccination, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). Vaccination Maternal is presented as an effective and viable strategy to prevent these diseases. WHO recommends its global implementation, particularly in LMIC,
according to health officials.
Real-World Effectiveness: The Berni Study
A study conducted in Argentina, known as the Berni study, evaluated the real-world effectiveness of the RSV vaccine during its first year of national implementation. The study included 505 babies under 6 months hospitalized for respiratory infections, comparing outcomes between those whose mothers were vaccinated during pregnancy and those whose mothers were not.
Key Findings from the Berni Study:
- 79% effectiveness against RSV hospitalization in babies up to 3 months.
- 71% effectiveness against RSV hospitalization up to 6 months.
- 77% effectiveness against serious illness until 6 months.
These results mirrored findings from the Phase 3 Matisse clinical study,further validating the vaccine’s effectiveness in real-world conditions.
additional Benefits Observed:
- Children of vaccinated mothers experienced less severe forms of the disease and required less intensive care.
- All RSV-related deaths occurred in babies of non-vaccinated mothers.
- Maternal vaccination promoted adherence to other recommended vaccines during pregnancy.
