Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Overview

Flashcards covering key concepts and terminology related to Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), including its pathogenicity, vaccine development, and public health implications.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

A significant respiratory pathogen, primarily affecting young children and the elderly, causing upper and lower respiratory tract infections.

Pneumoviridae

The family of viruses to which the Respiratory Syncytial Virus belongs, named after the Greek word 'pneumon' meaning lung.

Orthopneumovirus

The genus of RSV, with notable species including Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus.

Negative-sense RNA genome

A type of RNA genome that RSV possesses, which is 15kb in size and encodes 11 proteins.

Pathogenesis

The process by which RSV causes disease, primarily resulting in upper and lower respiratory infections.

Immunopathogenesis

The role of the immune response in the severity of RSV illness, particularly among infants.

Fusion Protein (F)

A glycoprotein that facilitates RSV entry into host cells by fusing viral and cellular membranes.

Seasonality of RSV infections

The predictable seasonal patterns of RSV infections influenced by environmental factors, human behavior, and public health measures.

Vaccine-enhanced illness

A phenomenon where vaccination can lead to more severe disease upon subsequent RSV infection, observed in some early RSV vaccines.

Monoclonal antibody therapy for RSV

A treatment involving monoclonal antibodies, such as Beyfortus, designed to protect infants from RSV infection when maternal vaccination is not achieved.

Passive immunization

The transfer of protective antibodies from mother to infant, which can shield newborns from RSV.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations

Guidelines for RSV vaccination to protect vulnerable populations, including older adults and pregnant mothers.