RSV Prevention in Newborns May Reduce Childhood Asthma Risk, New Research Shows
Researchers have discovered a strong link between early RSV infection and childhood asthma. The risk rises even more in children who already carry a genetic tendency toward allergies. As a result, experts believe that protecting newborns from RSV could offer long-term respiratory benefits.RSV is common worldwide. However, the virus can affect the developing immune system in newborns. It can shift the body toward stronger reactions to everyday allergens. This shift may later lead to asthma.
Why Early Protection Matters
Asthma affects 5–15% of children across Europe. It often impacts school, sleep, and family life. Therefore, finding ways to prevent asthma before symptoms start has become a major health goal.Belgian and Danish scientists studied health records and ran controlled experiments. Their combined approach showed how RSV and inherited allergy risks work together. They found that infants who faced severe RSV early in life developed stronger immune responses to allergens like dust mites. In addition, children with parents who have asthma or allergies faced even higher risk.
New Prevention Tools Show Promise
The most hopeful finding came from experiments where newborns received RSV protection. In these cases, their immune systems stayed balanced. As a result, asthma did not develop. This gives families a powerful reason to consider RSV prevention options.Today, many countries offer maternal RSV vaccines during late pregnancy. Long-acting antibody treatments for newborns are also available. However, uptake remains uneven, even though these tools can prevent most RSV hospitalizations.Experts say this is an important moment. Better RSV protection could do more than reduce winter infections. It may also lower asthma rates and ease pressure on families and healthcare systems.
