Bangkok: A silent threat is on the rise in Thailand as Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) cases surge, with a cumulative total of 48,462 child cases and 7 deaths reported in 2025. The majority of these cases, 80.47%, were in children aged 0-4 years, highlighting the vulnerability of this age group. As of May 2026, 1,885 cases have already been reported, with the 0-4 year age group still accounting for 69.94% of cases. This data underscores the significant impact of RSV on public health and families in Thailand.
According to Thai News Agency, the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society of Thailand, in collaboration with the Vaccine for People Foundation, organized a seminar to combat the RSV season. The seminar, titled "In-depth Look at the Silent Killer of the Rainy Season: Why RSV is a Worrying Disease Burden in Children and Prevention Strategies," aimed to provide guidance and share the latest medical innovations to protect Thai children's respiratory health. Dr. Paisarn Lertrudeephorn moderated the event, emphasizing the need for awareness and prevention.
Professor (Clinical) Dr. Kulakanya Chokpaiboonkit explained that RSV is more than just a common cold. It attacks the lower respiratory tract of infants and young children, leading to severe symptoms like coughing, thick mucus, and difficulty breathing. If left unchecked, RSV can cause bronchiolitis, pneumonia, and oxygen deprivation. The rainy season, from June to November, sees a rapid increase in RSV cases, with many children requiring hospitalization. In 2025, 38.86% of cases required inpatient treatment, and already in 2026, 34.32% have been hospitalized.
Associate Professor Dr. Vanatpriya Pongsamart highlighted the long-term risks associated with severe RSV infections, including the potential for chronic bronchial hypersensitivity and an increased risk of asthma. Professor Surasit Chaitongwattana stressed the importance of protecting infants from RSV, especially given Thailand's declining birth rates. Vaccinating pregnant women can help transfer immunity to newborns, reducing the risk of severe RSV symptoms.
To further protect infants, "ready-to-use RSV immunization" provides immediate immunity against the virus. This method can be administered from birth and has been shown to reduce hospitalization risk by over 80%. Available in over 50 countries, it was introduced in Thailand last year, offering effective protection throughout the outbreak season.
Parents and pregnant mothers are encouraged to consult with healthcare professionals to determine the best immunization plan for their children, ensuring they receive the necessary protection against RSV.