Respiratory syncytial virus: Diagnosis, prevention, and management of complications

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a highly contagious virus that causes pediatric respiratory infections. Most children will contract RSV multiple times throughout childhood, beginning before their first birthday. In many patients RSV infections are minor and self-limiting, but in certain patient populations they can lead to serious complications. Prevention techniques can minimize the spread of RSV. In addition to nonpharmacologic prevention methods, one pharmacologic prevention option, palivizumab, is available for certain patient populations at high risk for complications. Currently, there is a strong need for more preventive and treatment options for RSV