IMPACT OF RESPIRATORY SYNCYTIAL VIRUS IMMUNIZATION STRATEGIES ON THE REDUCTION OF BRONCHIOLITIS HOSPITALIZATIONS IN INFANTS: A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Resumo

Bronchiolitis remains a leading cause of infant hospitalization worldwide, with Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) as its primary etiological agent. This narrative review evaluates the impact of RSV immunization strategies, particularly nirsevimab and maternal vaccination, on reducing bronchiolitis- related hospitalizations. Real-world data from Spain, France, and the United States demonstrate nirsevimab effectiveness exceeding 70% in preventing RSV hospitalizations, with reductions up to 87% in hospital admissions and 90% in PICU admissions. Maternal vaccination showed efficacy above 80% against severe lower respiratory tract infections. In Braz il, 2026 preliminary data indicate a 52% reduction in RSV -associated hospitalizations in children under two years of age.