Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is one of the most common respiratory viruses – yet until recently, its role in adult disease was not well known. Thankfully, ongoing research has given us a greater understanding of RSV that can guide stronger prevention. Sharing this knowledge to increase awareness is essential to empower those at risk to take charge of their health and protect themselves against the virus.
Every year, around 470,000 adults aged 60 and older are hospitalised due to RSV infections in high-income countries. Around 30,000 adults die because of their infections.
For those who have experienced the severe effects of RSV firsthand, the importance of protection is clear – especially for vulnerable populations such as older adults and individuals with underlying medical conditions. Despite this, RSV remains relatively unknown to the general public.
The reasons for this are simple.
First, RSV symptoms in adults can be similar to those caused by other respiratory viruses such as influenza or SARS-Cov2, which causes COVID-19.
Secondly, limited testing and reporting mean that RSV diagnoses in adults are rare. Many were unaware of the virus until the "Quademic" – a surge in flu, COVID-19, RSV and norovirus cases – began to overwhelm hospitals in the winter, leading to widespread media coverage.
As part of a global community dedicated to progressing the fight against infectious disease, GSK scientists built on decades of experience in respiratory disease prevention and treatment to create more choices for patients and people at risk of respiratory illnesses. However, raising awareness of these risks is important.
“The fight against RSV isn’t just about science; it’s about arming people with knowledge and options to understand the power of prevention and take control of their health,” says Dr Yan Sergerie, Vice President, Global Medical Affairs, Lead for RSV at GSK.
“By advancing research and increasing awareness, we’re not only preventing severe outcomes but also relieving real burdens on the healthcare system, especially during surges in winter viruses.
“Doctors can only try to manage RSV symptoms, as there are no specific treatments for the virus. However, with more knowledge, improved diagnostics and expanded prevention strategies, we can better protect at-risk populations and reduce the burden of RSV worldwide.”
To help improve our knowledge of RSV, here are three simple, yet fascinating facts emerging from recent scientific research.
1. We don’t have an equal risk of severe RSV disease
RSV typically causes mild symptoms in healthy, young adults. However, in addition to the risk it poses to young children, the virus is also a serious risk to older adults and people with chronic conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), congestive heart failure, or diabetes.
“In these vulnerable groups, RSV can lead to shortness of breath and breathing difficulties,” says Sergerie.
“It can also cause serious diseases including pneumonia and exacerbate chronic medical conditions.”
RSV infections can lead to a deterioration in quality of life for those who are already fragile. This could mean higher chances of being hospitalised, increased dependency on family members or other care givers, or further potential health complications.
For example, a study conducted in the US showed that adults with chronic medical conditions are 3 to 10 times more likely to be hospitalised with RSV than adults without these conditions. Recognising these factors helps identify those most at risk.
2. We develop limited long-lasting immunity after an RSV infection
Unlike some infections, like measles, that give high-level, long-lasting immunity, RSV infections do not result in robust long-term protection in older adults, meaning symptomatic re-infections can occur.
“As we acquire co-morbid conditions and our immune systems age, the reinfections can become more and more severe,” says Dr Nancy Dezutter, Vice President of Vaccine Development for RSV at GSK.
“Understanding this aspect of RSV disease is crucial as we continue to pursue effective public health strategies.”
3. Like most seasonal viruses, RSV can evolve – but not like influenza or SARS-CoV-2
The epidemiology of RSV – or how the disease spreads – can vary from year to year. Factors such as levels of immunity in the community and the precautions we take against respiratory infections can influence its impact. However, it is also very different from seasonal viruses like influenza virus, which has much higher variability every year.
“Data has shown that strains of RSV that regularly cause human disease – which belong to only one viral type and 2 subtypes – can evolve, particularly those belonging to the RSV subtype,” says Dezutter.
“But so far not to the same level as Influenza and Corona viruses.
“This means that we’re not chasing a rapidly moving target, as it is the case with flu.”
