RESPIRATORY SYNCYTIAL VIRUS (RSV) AND ASTHMA—POTENTIAL FOR INTERVENTION

Abstract

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common virus that has the potential to infect people of all ages and is prevalent in countries all over the world. Most cases of RSV infections are presented in the upper respiratory tract, but there are cases of lower respiratory tract infection, which tend tolead tomore harmful consequences. In some instances, RSV infections can be responsible for the emergence of other short-term respiratory issues, such as pneumonia and bronchiolitis. This can occur if an RSV infection worsens and leads toconditions that make thelungs susceptible to illnesses and even chronic diseases. Asthma is common chronic health condition affecting millions of people worldwide, and increasing evidence shows that having severe RSV infections at an early age is linked to adult asthma. This literature review focuses on research findings that provide supportive evidence for how RSV islinked to asthma and possible interventions for both RSV and asthma. Iwill look at the backgrounds, the pathophysiology, and treatments and preventative options of both RSV and asthma. Then, I will focus on the main findings among the correlations between the cytokines that are upregulated during severe RSV infections, such as interleukin-33(IL-33), IL-13, and IL-5,and how those same cytokines areinvolved with asthma genesis and recurring asthmatic inflammation. Finally, I will discuss the potential forpreventing asthma development caused by RSV via early RSV vaccination.