Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) increase the risk of severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection, according to a systematic review of 40 studies. The review found that adults with asthma or COPD are more likely to be hospitalized for RSV, with a prevalence of 19.3% for asthma and 30.8% for COPD among hospitalized patients with RSV. The study also revealed that these individuals are at a higher risk for complications such as exacerbations of asthma and COPD, which occurred in up to 64.9% of patients with asthma and 83% of patients with COPD with RSV. Additionally, mortality rates in hospitalized patients ranged from 2.6% to 17.8%, depending on the condition.
The findings highlight the increased vulnerability of adults with asthma or COPD to RSV-related complications, including hospitalization, ICU admission, mechanical ventilation, and death. The study emphasizes the need for further research to better understand the long-term effects of RSV in these populations. Despite limitations, the review provides important evidence on the burden of RSV among adults with asthma and COPD. It also stresses the importance of preventive measures and further investigation into the virus’s impact.
Reference: Ferruggia K. Study Finds Elevated RSV Hospitalization Rates in Patients With Asthma, COPD. Pharmacy Times. Published March 12, 2025. Accessed March 18, 2025. https://www.pharmacytimes.com/view/study-finds-elevated-rsv-hospitalization-rates-in-patients-with-asthma-copd
