MANILA, Philippines — Health experts are raising the alarm over a surge in Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) cases, a highly contagious flu-like illness that is increasingly circulating as the country experiences cooler weather.
While often mistaken for the common cold, RSV can lead to severe complications, particularly for infants, young children, and the elderly.
The Rising Numbers Recent surveillance data highlights the significant impact of the virus on the Philippine healthcare system:
- High Positivity Rate: Data from the RSV Surveillance Project (January 2024 to May 2025) showed an overall positivity rate of 20 percent, spiking to nearly 67 percent during the peak season.
- Elderly Hospitalizations: RSV is estimated to contribute to 60,000 to 100,000 hospitalizations among older adults annually in the Philippines.
- Pediatric Risk: RSV consistently ranks as one of the top two respiratory viruses detected in infants and young children nationwide.
Vulnerable Groups and Complications Dr. Rontgene Solante, an infectious disease expert from San Lazaro Hospital, warned that public awareness remains low despite the virus’s prevalence.
- Seniors: Those aged 60 and above, especially those with comorbidities like asthma, COPD, and heart failure, face a higher risk of severe respiratory or cardiac complications.
- Infants: The virus is a leading cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in babies.
Prevention and Vaccination With no specific curative treatment available, health experts and the Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP) are emphasizing a “prevention-first” strategy:
- Maternal Immunization: Pregnant women are encouraged to get a single dose of the RSV vaccine (ideally from 28 weeks of gestation) to transfer protective antibodies to their newborns.
- Adult Vaccination: The U.S. CDC recommends the vaccine for adults aged 75+, and those aged 50–74 with chronic underlying conditions.
- Hygiene Protocols: Frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and mask-wearing in crowded areas remain essential.
“One infection can have long-term impacts,” Dr. Solante stated, urging the government to launch more aggressive awareness campaigns as the country moves through the cooler and rainy months.