Respiratory Syncytial Virus in Pediatrics: Update on Epidemiology, Management, Long-term Consequences and Prevention. Consensus From Asociación Latinoamericana de Tórax (ALAT) 2025.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) represents a major global public health challenge, with an especially high burden in low- and middle-income countries, many of which are located in Latin America. Worldwide, RSV is the leading cause of hospitalization in infants and young children due to lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs). Beyond the acute illness, severe RSV disease is associated with substantial long-term respiratory morbidity, including recurrent wheezing and an increased risk of asthma later in childhood. These consequences underscore the significant clinical, social, and economic impact of RSV on children, families, and health systems, particularly in regions where healthcare access and surveillance infrastructure remain limited.