A recent study in JAMA Network Open examined pediatric respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. RSV is a leading cause of pediatric hospitalizations for respiratory complications. Hospitalizations declined during the pandemic but surged in 2022-23. The study found older RSV-infected children post-pandemic, more hospitalizations but lower proportion of patients requiring intensive care. Advanced respiratory support increased in 2022-23 with a higher use of non-invasive and invasive ventilation. The study showed a sharp decline during COVID-19 and resurgence post-pandemic, causing strain on hospital systems. The findings suggest a significant increase in RSV infections post-pandemic, highlighting the need for preparedness.
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Pediatric RSV infections surged 2017-23, straining U.S. hospitals
