Project Summary

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a leading cause of lower respiratory tract infection in infants, but it also represents a substantial and under-recognized threat to adults, particularly older individuals and those with immunocompromising conditions. Globally, RSV contributes to considerable morbidity and mortality, with the highest burden observed among elderly and immunosuppressed populations. Despite this, there remains a paucity of robust epidemiological data describing RSV outcomes in high-risk adult groups, particularly in tertiary care hospitals where patients often present with complex comorbidities and advanced immunosuppression.

The goal of this research project is to quantify the clinical and epidemiological burden of RSV among immunocompromised adults in a tertiary specialist hospital setting. We will estimate RSV incidence and evaluate key outcomes including hospitalization, ICU admission, and mortality, while conducting matched analyses to compare outcomes between immunocompromised and non-immunocompromised adults. Secondary analyses will identify predictors of severe RSV outcomes, explore seasonal variation and co-infection patterns, assess healthcare utilization, and examine the predictive value of specific laboratory biomarkers.

By generating granular, context-specific data, this study will fill critical knowledge gaps regarding RSV in immunocompromised adults. The findings are expected to inform hospital infection control strategies, guide resource allocation, and support evidence-based prioritization of high-risk groups for vaccination or monoclonal antibody therapies. Ultimately, this work aims to improve clinical outcomes and preventive strategies in a population disproportionately affected by RSV.

Collaborators

Magid Halim, Yusri Taha, Omar Rahama.
Beta Version