RSV Infection in Older Adults: Presentation, Comorbidities, and Outcomes

Respiratory syncytial virus causes considerable morbidity and mortality in older adults, especially relative to influenza and SARS-CoV-2.

With the advent of rapid testing for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), it has become clear that RSV does not solely affect infants and children, but also causes serious and sometimes lethal pneumonia in adults.

In an analysis of data from the Investigating Respiratory Viruses in the Acutely Ill (IVY) Network (25 U.S. hospitals in 20 states), Surie et al. assessed disease severity in patients aged ≥60 years who were hospitalized from February 2022 through May 2023 with RSV, influenza, or SARS-CoV-2 infection. Upper respiratory specimens were tested with RT-PCR; disease severity was assessed based on need for supplemental oxygen and intensive care. Among 5784 patients, 5.3% tested positive for RSV, 81.8% for COVID-19, and 12.9% for influenza.…

Reviewing Author

Stephen G. Baum, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardClinical Infectious Diseases

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Editorial BoardsMedical Letter

Stephen G. Baum, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardClinical Infectious Diseases

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Editorial BoardsMedical Letter

RSV Infection in Older Adults: Presentation, Comorbidities, and Outcomes

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Reviewing Author