Indonesian healthcare professionals are bolstering efforts too protect the nation’s most vulnerable infants from the possibly severe effects of Respiratory Syncytial virus (RSV). A leading pediatric respirologist is recommending passive immunization with Palivizumab for premature infants, a measure slated to begin in 2025, as RSV – a common, yet frequently enough underestimated virus – poses a significant risk of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in this population. While currently limited by cost, the suggestion comes alongside promising developments in RSV vaccination for pregnant women, potentially offering a new layer of protection for newborns.
A passive immunization using Palivizumab is recommended for premature infants to prevent infection with Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), according to a leading Indonesian pediatric respirologist. The recommendation comes as healthcare professionals seek ways to protect vulnerable infants from severe respiratory illness.
“Palivizumab is a monoclonal antibody, meaning it’s a ready-to-use antibody that starts working immediately after injection, without requiring the body to mount its own immune response,” explained Prof. dr. Cissy Rachiana Sudjana Prawira Sp.A(K) MSc Ph.D of Universitas Padjajaran, on Tuesday, November 25th. “That’s the benefit of this passive immunization.”
RSV is a common virus that causes infections of the respiratory tract, but it’s often unrecognized, even by doctors. Infants under two years old are particularly susceptible, and premature babies face an even higher risk of complications. The virus can lead to bronchiolitis and pneumonia, potentially causing serious health problems.
Symptoms of RSV infection can mimic those of the flu or a common cold, including a runny nose, cough, sneezing, and loss of appetite. The virus enters the body through the respiratory system and can spread, leading to inflammation of the lungs.
The Indonesian Pediatric Association (IDAI) is recommending Palivizumab immunization for premature infants starting in 2025 to prevent health declines caused by RSV infection, which can be a significant contributor to pneumonia. This proactive approach aims to reduce the burden of severe respiratory illness in this vulnerable population.
Palivizumab is administered via intramuscular injection, with a dosage of 15 milligrams per kilogram of body weight. Its protective effect lasts for 30 days, and it’s recommended to administer the shot one month before the RSV season, which typically runs from late fall through mid-year.
Infants under two months of age who were born prematurely, children with chronic lung conditions like bronchopulmonary dysplasia, those with congenital heart disease, children undergoing cancer treatment, and those with neuromuscular disorders are at particularly high risk from RSV.
“In these children, the illness tends to be more severe,” Dr. Cissy explained. “Pneumonia can appear as white patches on the lungs, causing severe breathing difficulties and potentially leading to decreased consciousness. These infants often require increased oxygen support and may need to be admitted to the ICU.”
Currently, Palivizumab immunization for premature infants isn’t widely available due to its high cost. However, a new RSV vaccine for pregnant women is being developed, which aims to create maternal antibodies that can pass to the baby and provide protection against RSV for up to six months after birth. This offers a promising alternative approach to safeguarding infants.
In addition to immunization, preventative measures such as practicing good hygiene – including regular handwashing, wearing masks, avoiding touching the face, and maintaining a clean environment – can help prevent the spread of RSV. Avoiding smoking near children, not sharing eating utensils, and ensuring adequate fluid and food intake when a child is sick are also important steps. (Ant/Z-1)
