Accepted: 19 April 2024 / Published online: 7 May 2024 | Franco Alfano, Tommaso Bigoni, Francesco Paolo Caggiano, Alberto Papi
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infection is a common and often underestimated condition across all age groups, with a disproportionately high impact on older individuals. The incidence of RSV infections requiring medical attention increases with age, particularly among those aged 70 years and older. Immunosenescence, an aging population, and increased comorbidities contribute to the risk of severe RSV infections in high-income countries. Standard care for RSV-infected patients includes supportive measures such as fluids, antipyretics, and oxygen support. There is an urgent need for antivirals and preventive strategies, especially for high-risk individuals. Recent advancements in active immunization, including the approval of candidate vaccines (Arexvy, GSK, and Abrysvo, Pfizer) for older adults, offer hope for better prevention. The review discusses the epidemiology, virology, immunopathology, clinical characteristics, and therapeutic and preventive perspectives of RSV infection, emphasizing the importance of early detection and targeted management, particularly in vulnerable populations.Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infection is a common and often underestimated condition across all age groups, with a disproportionately high impact on older individuals. The incidence of RSV infections requiring medical attention increases with age, particularly among those aged 70 years and older. Immunosenescence, an aging population, and increased comorbidities contribute to the risk of severe RSV infections in high-income countries. Standard care for RSV-infected patients includes supportive measures such as fluids, antipyretics, and oxygen support. There is an urgent need for antivirals and preventive strategies, especially for high-risk individuals. Recent advancements in active immunization, including the approval of candidate vaccines (Arexvy, GSK, and Abrysvo, Pfizer) for older adults, offer hope for better prevention. The review discusses the epidemiology, virology, immunopathology, clinical characteristics, and therapeutic and preventive perspectives of RSV infection, emphasizing the importance of early detection and targeted management, particularly in vulnerable populations.