Compliance With RSV Prophylaxis Can Reduce Hospitalizations Associated With RSV-Lower Respiratory Tract Infections In High-Risk Infants and Children

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common virus that affects nearly all children by the age of 2. RSV usually causes mild cold-like symptoms in children as well as in adults. Premature infants and infants with lung or heart problems have a high risk of getting RSV-lower respiratory tract infections, such as pneumonia or bronchiolitis. Each year, an estimated 125,000 infants in the United States are hospitalized with severe RSV infections — the leading cause of infant hospitalization in the United States (Shay 1999). RSV also may be associated with long-term health problems, such as asthma (Sigurs 2000). Severe RSV infections may cause up to 500 deaths annually (Shay 2001). Frank J. Malinoski, MD, PhD RSV is highly contagious and can be transmitted by touching an infected person and then rubbing the eyes, nose, or mouth. The virus also can be spread through coughing and sneezing. In addition to premature birth or being born with lung or heart problems, risk factors for severe RSV in children include: Low birth weight (less than 5.5 pounds) Older brothers and sisters Going to a day care center Family history of asthma Exposure to tobacco smoke and other air pollutants Multiple births in the family Infants born at less than 32 weeks gestational age, and a large number of those born between 32 and 35 weeks gestational age, are at a significantly elevated risk for severe RSV disease and should be considered for RSV prophylaxis. Although healthcare providers are in the best position to identify and assess the risk of RSV for children, MCOs also play a critical role in ensuring that children at risk have access to RSV prophylaxis on a timely basis. MCOs play a critical role in ensuring that children at risk have access to RSV prophylaxis on a timely basis and receive the appropriate course of therapy. Once an at-risk infant is identified, it is important that a full course of RSV prophylaxis be completed. In general, monthly doses should be administered throughout the RSV season — typically beginning in the fall and continuing through the spring — to optimize the benefits of prophylaxis. MCOs, working together with healthcare providers, can help to ensure access to a full course of RSV prophylaxis, as well as a timely first dose for high-risk infants.