What The World Health Organization Says About RSV

Based on the latest information from WHO and related health organizations, here's what we know about the global RSV situation:

Current Global Impact

According to WHO's latest fact sheet (2025):

- Over 3.6 million hospitalizations annually

- Approximately 100,000 deaths in children under 5 years of age

- 97% of pediatric RSV deaths occur in developing countries

Recent Trends and Surveillance

1. **Global Surveillance**

- WHO has been implementing RSV surveillance through the Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS) since 2015

- The organization identifies RSV as a leading cause of hospitalization due to acute lower respiratory infection, especially in infants and young children

2. **Current Season (2024-2025)**

- WHO reports increased respiratory infection activity in many regions

- These increases are typically associated with seasonal epidemics of respiratory pathogens, including RSV

- Multiple countries are experiencing simultaneous rises in RSV, influenza, and other respiratory viruses

WHO's Response and Recommendations

1. **Monitoring Systems**

- Enhanced global surveillance systems to track RSV cases

- Integration with existing influenza surveillance networks

- Improved disease burden estimation methods

2. **Priority Areas**

- Special focus on protecting vulnerable populations:

- Infants and young children

- Elderly individuals

- Immunocompromised patients

Regional Variations

The WHO notes that RSV patterns can vary significantly by region:

- Seasonal patterns in most countries

- Different peak times depending on geographical location

- Varying intensity of outbreaks across regions

This information is sourced directly from WHO's official communications and reports, including their 2025 fact sheets and surveillance updates. The organization continues to monitor the situation and update guidance as needed.