Cleveland Clinic journal of medicine
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In 2023 and 2024, 3 vaccines were approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in adults. In addition, the first long-acting RSV monoclonal antibody for infants and young children was approved. This review provides clinicians with practical guidance to navigate this new era of RSV prevention.
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The new vaccines against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) reduce the risk of RSV illness, which is common in older people and carries the risk of hospitalization with its attendant risks such as delirium and physical decline leading to loss of function and independence. Individualized discussions regarding vaccination should weigh the risks of vaccination, which are minor, against the preventive benefits. Discussions incorporating these elements may lead to greater vaccine uptake, especially by those at high risk.
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Vaccination is a cornerstone of public health, but vaccine hesitancy poses significant challenges as highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Addressing the challenge requires healthcare professionals to effectively counter misinformation. ⋯ Legislation, policy interventions, research, innovation, and technology are needed to enhance vaccine uptake and ensure equitable access. Integration of vaccination into routine healthcare is paramount for public health protection against emerging infectious threats.
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Viral respiratory diseases affect millions of individuals worldwide each year. Annual vaccinations are recommended by the World Health Organization for some of them, such as influenza and more recently for the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) and respiratory syncytial virus, with the goal of reducing disease severity and limiting transmission. In the context of infection and vaccination, it is of primary importance to evaluate the immune response to pathogens to shed light on the mechanisms of protection.
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Testing for respiratory viruses has changed greatly over the past decade, owing to advances in technology, drug development, vaccine research, and a growing recognition of the importance of improving patient access. Here, we focus on the most common respiratory viruses and review preanalytic variables (eg, collection and storage) that affect test results, testing methods including nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT), and controversies, challenges, and trends in diagnostic testing relevant to clinicians.