Seasonal Incidence of Medically Attended Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection From 2015 to 2019 in a Cohort of Adults With High-risk Conditions - Report - MDSpire
Advertisement
Seasonal Incidence of Medically Attended Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection From 2015 to 2019 in a Cohort of Adults With High-risk Conditions
Seasonal Incidence of RSV Infections in High-risk Adults (2015–2019)
Overview
This retrospective study assessed the seasonal incidence of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections requiring medical attention among adults with high-risk conditions in Wisconsin from 2015 to 2019. The study found a substantial burden of RSV-related medically attended acute respiratory illness (MAARI), with incidence increasing with age.
Background
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a significant cause of respiratory illness in young children and older adults. Adults with underlying high-risk conditions such as COPD, asthma, heart failure, diabetes, and immunosuppression may also experience severe RSV infections. However, RSV is often underdiagnosed in adults due to nonspecific symptoms and limited routine testing. Understanding RSV incidence in high-risk adults is important for vaccine policy, healthcare planning, and resource allocation.
Data Highlights
Age Group (years)
Incidence per 10,000 High-risk Adults (95% CI)
18–49
69.3 (52.4–91.7)
50–59
131.6 (92.3–187.6)
60–74
109.9 (80.2–150.6)
≥75
150.5 (100.8–224.6)
All ages ≥18
94.1 (79.5–111.5)
Key Findings
A total of 303 RSV infections were identified among 3601 respiratory samples from adults with high-risk conditions.
RSV A accounted for 40% of the infections detected.
The overall estimated incidence of RSV-related MAARI was 94.1 per 10,000 high-risk adults across all seasons studied.
Incidence increased with age, peaking at 150.5 per 10,000 in adults aged 75 years and older.
The study population was predominantly White (97%) and female (66%), with a mean age of 53 years.
Clinical Implications
Clinicians should recognize that adults with high-risk conditions have a substantial risk of RSV infection requiring medical attention, especially older adults. Increased awareness and consideration of RSV in differential diagnosis during respiratory illness seasons may improve detection. These findings support the need for targeted preventive strategies, including vaccination and resource planning, in this vulnerable population.
Conclusion
This study highlights a significant seasonal burden of RSV-related medically attended respiratory illness among adults with high-risk conditions, with incidence rising notably with age. Enhanced surveillance and preventive measures are warranted to address this underrecognized public health concern.
References
Marshfield Clinic Health System Study 2015–2019 -- Seasonal Patterns of RSV in High-risk Adults
