Understanding the Impact of Early-life RSV Infections on Infant Immunity and Long-term Health
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a main global cause of respiratory illness and death in infants. Previous infant vaccine trials have failed to demonstrate protection. Moreover, RSV infection during early infancy, particularly in infants younger than 4 months of age, is associated with more severe disease, reduced immune protection, and an increased risk of developing childhood asthma. This study aim to investigate the immunological and long-term health effects of a first exposure to RSV early (\<4 months) versus late (\>6-9 months) in infancy.
• Birthing parent/child pairs with a delivery date in April, May or June or September, October or November who delivered or are planning to deliver at BC Women's Hospital + Health Centre or a nearby, local hospital.