THE GLOBAL BURDEN OF RESPIRATORY SYNCYTIAL VIRUS INFECTION IN CHILDREN: ACHIEVEMENTS AND CHALLENGES OF MODERN PEDIATRICS

Abstract

 Relevance. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection remains one of the leading causes of acute respiratory diseases in infants and young children, representing a serious medical and socio-economic problem worldwide. Its high contagiousness, pronounced seasonality, and severe course in newborns have a significant impact on childhood morbidity and mortality rates. Objective. To assess the current state of the RSV infection problem in children, including its epidemiological, clinical, and socio-economic aspects, as well as to analyze new advances in prevention, diagnosis, and therapy — particularly the introduction of monoclonal antibodies and vaccine platforms. Materials and Methods. An analytical review was conducted based on national and international sources from 2019–2025, covering materials from the World Health Organization, results of multicenter cohort and randomized clinical studies, as well as data from meta-analyses and systematic reviews published in leading scientific databases (PubMed, Scopus, WHO Global RSV Surveillance). Results. RSV infection continues to be one of the major causes of acute respiratory diseases in infants and young children. According to WHO data, more than 33 million cases are registered annually, of which approximately 3.6 million require hospitalization, and up to 100,000 result in death. The highest burden of the disease falls on infants during the first six months of life, particularly among premature newborns and patients with congenital heart defects or bronchopulmonary dysplasia. In recent years, significant progress has been achieved in prevention: long-acting monoclonal antibodies (nirsevimab), vaccines for pregnant women (Abrysvo, Arexvy), and the development of mRNA vaccines have been introduced. These advances open new opportunities to reduce the global burden of RSV-related disease. Nevertheless, therapeutic approaches remain largely symptomatic, while early laboratory diagnostics and the rational use of healthcare resources require further improvement. Conclusions. RSV infection represents a major medical and social problem characterized by high contagiousness, seasonality, and severe complications in infants. Strengthening epidemiological surveillance, implementing highly sensitive diagnostic methods, and expanding vaccination programs are key strategies for reducing mortality and hospitalization rates. Recent advances in vaccinology and monoclonal antibody therapy form the foundation for a comprehensive preventive strategy aimed at protecting the most vulnerable groups of the pediatric population.