RSV Hospitalizations Decrease in Central Illinois

According to a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) analysis, hospitalization rates for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) among infants and young children declined during the most recent RSV season.

Impact of Vaccines and Treatments

Healthcare experts attribute this decrease to new vaccines and antibody therapies that help protect the most vulnerable young children. The CDC reported a 28% to 43% reduction in infant hospitalizations compared to RSV seasons before the COVID-19 pandemic.

Expert Insight

Kelsey Grimes, a pediatrician with OSF HealthCare, noted:

“We have seen a drastic decrease in hospitalizations and ICU stays, which is usually when kids experience increased work of breathing and require oxygen and support.”

RSV and Its Effects

RSV is a leading cause of hospitalization for infants and young children in the United States. It can trigger severe respiratory illness, particularly in babies and children with underlying health issues.

New Preventive Measures

• A maternal vaccine is administered to pregnant women between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy, providing antibodies to the baby before birth.
• A monoclonal antibody injection is available for infants up to seven months old and some high-risk children up to 19 months old.

“These preventative options don’t stop RSV completely,” said Grimes.