Experts sound alarm on threat of respiratory virus to infants, elderly

Health experts have raised the alarm over the increasing threat of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a highly contagious but often overlooked respiratory illness that severely affects infants and older adults, urging stronger awareness and preventive action in the Philippines.

- By JEL SANTOS

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), RSV remains a leading cause of acute lower respiratory infections among young children, and continues to place a heavy disease burden on elderly populations.

In a forum titled “RSV: The Invisible Thief that Breaks Breath” held in Makati City, medical specialists emphasized that RSV remains the leading cause of respiratory illness in young children and a growing threat to adults aged 60 and above, especially those with chronic conditions.