RSV Hospitalizations Surge in Kids

0:00It's April 27th. I'm Cory with the story, and this is Canada News today, your AI-powered local news. A new study from McGill University Health Center and BC Children's Hospital shows RSV hospitalizations in kids more than doubled in the 20. 22 to 2023 season compared to pre-pandemic years. Research has tallied over 5,000 cases nationwide, way up from the usual annual average of about 2,500. This surge hit right after lockdowns ended, delaying kids' first exposure to the virus and making the season extra intense in late fall and early, winter. Even though the average age of hospitalized children ticked up a bit, infants under six months still took the biggest hit. 1% of admissions and more than 60% of intensive care stays, pediatric hospitals across Canada got overwhelmed with frontline workers feeling the crush firsthand. RSV remains the top cause

1:02of serious lower respiratory infections like bronchialitis and pneumonia in children and over 75% of cases happen in otherwise healthy kids. The study, now out in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, highlights why targeting the youngest infants matters for prevention. Quebec's immunization push has already slashed emergency visits in ICU admissions by 85% in vaccinated babies. New tools like monoconal antibodies for infants and vaccines for pregnant women are rolling out, including Moderna's mRNA shot approved by health, Canada. These steps show real promise in easing the burden before the next season ramps up.