[Guidelines for respiratory syncytial virus prophylaxis. An update].

Epidemiological studies performed by the IRIS study group in the last two respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) seasons found that the hospitalization rates for RSV in premature infants born before or in week 32 of gestation were 13.4 % and 13.1 %, respectively. Of these, 18 % and 25 % of the infants were admitted to the intensive care unit. Currently available information demonstrates the efficacy of RSV monoclonal antibodies (palivizumab) and the absence of major adverse effects. To date, there are no data that indicate the need to modify the guidelines for RSV prophylaxis in premature infants published in 2000.