It's a virus that has long been characterized as dangerous and even deadly, but new research shows infant deaths from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are actually quite uncommon in the 21st century. Researchers at the University of Utah have shown there are approximately 42 deaths annually associated with RSV in the United States, and of those deaths, the majority are in infants and young children that have complex preexisting chronic conditions.
"The news is very good for parents and their babies," says Carrie Byington, MD, professor of pediatrics at the University of Utah and the study's principal investigator.
In most children, RSV will present with cold symptoms such as a runny nose, cough, wheezing, and mild fever. It can often lead to bronchiolitis (a swelling of the airways which makes breathing difficult) and pneumonia. In babies younger than six months, these conditions may require hospitalization. "Although RSV is one of the most common causes for infant hospitalizations, we can support infants through this infection. Most hospitalizations will be two to three days with infants expected to recover fully," Byington says.
Most babies can handle the virus and these symptoms, but those at higher risk for serious complications include very premature babies with lung disease and those born with heart problems or immune deficiencies.
The study, published today in the journal Pediatrics, determined mortality rates are much lower than previously thought. Based on research from decades ago, estimates showed RSV was linked to 210 to 4,500 deaths annually. The new study estimates the annual death toll to be up to 100-fold lower based on analysis of two national databases representing more than 850,000 RSV-associated admissions between the years 2000 to 2011. The decrease in mortality is likely the result of advances in medical care since the first estimates were calculated.
This new information may help guide appropriate prevention and treatment strategies. For example, medication that helps prevent RSV hospitalizations is very costly. "The use of these medications has been controversial," says Byington. "This research may help guide more appropriate use of these costly medications for the infants and young children most at risk for developing severe complications."
The information may also help focus research, such as targeting preventive vaccines to the subset of children most at risk for complications from RSV.
This work was supported by funding from the National Institutes of Health, and the H.A. and Edna Benning Presidential Endowment.
Reference: Byington CL, et al. Respiratory Syncytial Virus-Associated Mortality in Hospitalized Infants and Young Children. Pediatrics. Dec. 8, 2014.
Source: University of Utah
Stay prepared and protected with Infection Control Today's newsletter, delivering essential updates, best practices, and expert insights for infection preventionists.
US Withdrawal From UNESCO Signals a Dangerous Step Back for Global Science
July 22nd 2025In a decision heavy with consequence and light on foresight, the US has once again chosen to walk away from UNESCO, leaving behind not just a seat at the table, but a legacy of global scientific leadership that now lies in question.
Breaking the Cycle of Silence: Why Sharps Injuries Go Unreported and What Can Be Done
Published: July 24th 2025 | Updated: July 23rd 2025Despite decades of progress in health care safety, a quiet but dangerous culture still lingers: many health care workers remain afraid to report sharps injuries, fearing blame more than the wound itself.
Telemedicine's Transformative Role in PPE Distribution and Sterile Equipment Management
July 22nd 2025In an era defined by digital transformation and post-pandemic urgency, telemedicine has evolved beyond virtual visits to become a vital infrastructure for delivering personal protective equipment (PPE) and managing sterile supplies. By enabling real-time forecasting, remote quality control, and equitable distribution, telemedicine is revolutionizing how health care systems protect both patients and providers.
Reducing Hidden Risks: Why Sharps Injuries Still Go Unreported
July 18th 2025Despite being a well-known occupational hazard, sharps injuries continue to occur in health care facilities and are often underreported, underestimated, and inadequately addressed. A recent interview with sharps safety advocate Amanda Heitman, BSN, RN, CNOR, a perioperative educational consultant, reveals why change is overdue and what new tools and guidance can help.
US Withdrawal From UNESCO Signals a Dangerous Step Back for Global Science
July 22nd 2025In a decision heavy with consequence and light on foresight, the US has once again chosen to walk away from UNESCO, leaving behind not just a seat at the table, but a legacy of global scientific leadership that now lies in question.
Breaking the Cycle of Silence: Why Sharps Injuries Go Unreported and What Can Be Done
Published: July 24th 2025 | Updated: July 23rd 2025Despite decades of progress in health care safety, a quiet but dangerous culture still lingers: many health care workers remain afraid to report sharps injuries, fearing blame more than the wound itself.
Telemedicine's Transformative Role in PPE Distribution and Sterile Equipment Management
July 22nd 2025In an era defined by digital transformation and post-pandemic urgency, telemedicine has evolved beyond virtual visits to become a vital infrastructure for delivering personal protective equipment (PPE) and managing sterile supplies. By enabling real-time forecasting, remote quality control, and equitable distribution, telemedicine is revolutionizing how health care systems protect both patients and providers.
Reducing Hidden Risks: Why Sharps Injuries Still Go Unreported
July 18th 2025Despite being a well-known occupational hazard, sharps injuries continue to occur in health care facilities and are often underreported, underestimated, and inadequately addressed. A recent interview with sharps safety advocate Amanda Heitman, BSN, RN, CNOR, a perioperative educational consultant, reveals why change is overdue and what new tools and guidance can help.
2 Commerce Drive
Cranbury, NJ 08512