PP-094 Palivizumab in the prophylaxis of respiratory syncytial virus infections

AimThe aim of this study is to evaluate the indications, safety and efficacy of palivizumab in the prophylaxis of severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections.Material and MethodA retrospective study was conducted in a regional medical center. Data from the medical records of children who were included in palivizumab prophylaxis for a period of 6 years were analyzed. Hospitalizations due to respiratory infections in the same season were monitored.ResultsA total of 102 children were enrolled for palivizumab prophylaxis during six RSV seasons (2017/18 to 2022/23). Five children were included in prophylaxis for 2 and one with primary immunodeficiency and congenital heart disease for 3 consecutive seasons. Of all infants, 68 children (66.7%) were premature, 64 had a gestational age below 33 GW (62.8%), 9 had bronchopulmonary dysplasia (8.8%), 32 children (31.4%) had hemodynamically significant congenital heart disease. Many children had multiple risk factors. Only 5 children (4.9%) were enrolled for prophylaxis for other indications (pulmonary anomalies, encephalopathy and primary immunodeficiency). The overall average of palivizumab doses per child was 3,3. During six seasons, ten children were hospitalized in the same season due to a mild respiratory infection; none of them required intensive respiratory support. No adverse events were reported with palivizumab prophylaxis.ConclusionsPalivizumab is a safe and effective prophylaxis against severe RSV infections. Compared to previous reports from our country, the number of children on prophylaxis for other indications has increased, which follows the trend of world statistics. The percentage of hospitalized children is higher compared to previous reports, which can be explained by the lower number of palivizumab doses received, but also by changes in the seasonal circulation of respiratory viruses due to the Covid 19 pandemic.