Prevention and prophylaxis of respiratory syncytial virus in pediatric cardiology: a UK perspective.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common infection, causing bronchiolitis in over 70% of infants each year and almost all children by the age of 2. It is the leading cause of acute lower respiratory tract infections and admissions to hospital worldwide. Previously healthy infants may have a prolonged cough or wheezing following RSV infection but up to 20% of those with congenital cardiac disease will be hospitalized and have significant morbidity and mortality. For this reason, it is generally recommended that many such infants should receive prophylaxis against RSV infection with palivizumab. This paper reviews the current state of knowledge about RSV affecting children with congenital heart disease from the perspective of those living in the UK and the current protection offered to such children. We also discuss the plans for the future of protection against RSV.
Department of Congenital Heart Disease, Bristol Royal Hospital for Children & Bristol Heart Institute, Bristol, BS2 8BJ, UK.
Robert M R
RM
Tulloh
Sarah
S
Bury
D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized / Q000191:economics / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000998:Antiviral Agents / Q000191:economics / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002648:Child; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D006801:Humans; D007267:Injections; D000069455:Palivizumab; D010372:Pediatrics; D012135:Respiratory Sounds / Q000209:etiology; D018357:Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections / Q000517:prevention & control*; D012307:Risk Factors; D006113:United Kingdom; D014611:Vaccination
D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; D000998:Antiviral Agents; D000069455:Palivizumab