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RSV, usually a winter illness, is here again

Infectious disease experts say they are tracking cases and may reactivate an antibody treatment protocol

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The typical treatment for children under 5 with RSV is monthly shots of a monoclonal antibody from around November through February. But experts could reactivate the protocol this summer.

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By Leila Merrill

WASHINGTON — Respiratory syncytial virus typically shows up in the winter months. But it’s been present this month and in May. The flu is here, too, the Washington Post reported.

In hospitals, physicians are adjusting protocols that for decades reflected a predictable cycle of illnesses.

Theresa Barton, head of pediatric infectious diseases at University Health in San Antonio, and other infectious-disease specialists are considering their response to RSV.

The typical treatment for children under 5 is monthly shots of a monoclonal antibody from around November through February. Experts are tracking cases so they are prepared to reactivate the protocol.


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