Respiratory syncytial virus: challenges in diagnosis and impact on the elderly: Recommendations from a multidisciplinary panel

Abstract

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is an important cause of respiratory illness. While most attention is paid to childhood infection, the RSV burden in adults ≥60 y should also be considered. In Brazil, this is generally underrecognized, where greater focus is toward other respiratory pathogens. This article presents insights from a multidisciplinary panel gathered to review epidemiologic data and current diagnostic approaches to RSV in Brazil (and their limitations) and develop communication strategies to improve knowledge and awareness. National surveillance data indicate a steady increase in cases of RSV-related severe acute respiratory illness (RSV-SARI) in those aged ≥60 y in recent years, with high fatality rates (>30%). Routine RSV testing in older individuals with respiratory symptoms is relatively low. Educational activities targeted toward health-care professionals and the general public are critical to raising awareness of the importance of RSV in older individuals, particularly as protective vaccines are now available.

Keywords

• Respiratory syncytial virus
• RSV
• disease burden
• older adults
• Brazil