100,000 cases a year, yet RSV remains off our radar

Have you taken your RSV vaccine shots yet?

While the Amihan season may feel like a refreshing breeze for most Filipinos, it also brings health risks that demand our attention. One of the most common and often overlooked is the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).

RSV is a highly contagious virus that targets the respiratory tract, typically causing symptoms like coughs and colds. If left untreated, it can result in life-threatening complications such as pneumonia and bronchiolitis.

The virus primarily affects infants and young children, older adults (aged 50 and over), and individuals with weakened immune systems

Dr. Rontgene M. Solante, an infectious disease specialist at San Lazaro Hospital, warns that RSV continues to drive cases each year. According to 2025 data from the RSV Surveillance Project, an estimated 60,000 to 100,000 older adults are affected and hospitalized annually due to the virus. Despite its serious impact, public awareness remains alarmingly limited.

Currently, there is no specific cure or treatment for RSV, which makes vigilance essential now, especially during the cold season. Health professionals are urging those at high risk, particularly adults aged 50 and older, to get vaccinated at their nearest hospital.

Pregnant women are also encouraged to undergo maternal immunization, ideally two weeks before labor to maximize transfer of antibodies to the newborn.

If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, don’t just wait for them to escalate. Consult a healthcare professional immediately. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and protect your health this Amihan season.

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