Implications of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Pandemic on the Epidemiology of Pediatric Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection
Oludare A. Odumade, Simon D. van Haren, Asimenia Angelidou
Abstract
Respiratory viral infections account for a large percentage of global disease and death. Respiratory syncytial virus is a seasonal virus affecting immunologically vulnerable populations, such as preterm newborns and young infants; however, its epidemiology has changed drastically during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. In this perspective, we discuss the implications of coronavirus disease 2019 on respiratory syncytial virus seasonality patterns and mitigation efforts, as well as the urgent need for vaccination as a preventive tool.
Topics & Concepts
MedicinePandemicEpidemiologyCoronavirusVirusVirologyRespiratory systemVaccinationRespiratory diseaseDiseaseImmunologyCoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)Infectious disease (medical specialty)LungInternal medicineRespiratory viral infections researchNeonatal Respiratory Health ResearchCongenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Studies