Romanian Society of Pneumology: RSV Hospitalizations in Infants
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RSV Virus Circulation Increasing in Romania: A Public Health Alert
What is Happening?
The Romanian Society of Pneumology is alerting the public to a rise in Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) circulation across Europe, including Romania. This increase is particularly concerning for infants, the elderly, and individuals with underlying health conditions.
According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)’s weekly report for November 2025, a general increase in respiratory virus infections is already being observed continent-wide.
The Importance of RSV
RSV can appear as a common cold, but it can lead to severe illness, especially in vulnerable populations. Professor Dr. Florin Mihălțan, President of the Romanian Pulmonology society, emphasized the impact: “Behind the numbers are realities that cannot be ignored: annually, more than 5,000 cots of infants under 6 months of age were occupied by children hospitalized with RSV. It is a virus that may seem like a simple cold,but it can lead to severe conditions. Today ther are modern prevention options, including vaccination: for the first time, in 2025 the world Health Institution (WHO) issued a recommendation on vaccination against RSV. Vaccination against RSV is recommended for pregnant women to protect infants and vulnerable adults, i.e., those with chronic diseases and the elderly. As temperatures drop and respiratory viruses resume circulation, it’s essential to use all the protective tools at our disposal.”
Why is this Important for Romania?
- RSV is a common respiratory agent, often causing cold-like symptoms in young children, but can progress to bronchiolitis or pneumonia, particularly in children under 2 years old or those born prematurely.
- In adults – especially the elderly, individuals with chronic lung disease, heart disease, or compromised immune systems – RSV can exacerbate symptoms and lead to complications requiring hospitalization.
- While current activity levels are still considered “low,” a clear upward trend is emerging. Proactive measures are crucial now.
- The Romanian healthcare system must prepare for potential overload in pediatric and pulmonology departments during the colder months if preventative steps are not implemented.
Recommendations for Healthcare Professionals
- Pulmonologists, family doctors, and pediatricians should be prepared for an increase in RSV cases.
- Consider vaccination for eligible patients (pregnant women and vulnerable adults).
- promote preventative measures such as hand hygiene, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when sick.
Understanding RSV: A Deeper Dive
RSV is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms.Though, it can be serious, especially for certain groups. Here’s a breakdown of the virus and its impact:
Symptoms
| Age Group | Common Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Infants | Runny nose, decreased appetite, cough, sneezing, fever, wheezing |
| Young Children | Similar to infants, but may also include ear infections |
| Adults | runny nose, sore throat, cough, headache, fever (often mild) |
Transmission
RSV spreads through: