[Introduction of WHO position paper on immunization to protect infants against respiratory syncytial virus disease, May 2025].

Abstract

On May 30, 2025, World Health Organization (WHO) position paper on immunization to protect infants against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) disease, May 2025 was published (hereinafter referred to as the position paper). The WHO recommends that countries use RSV vaccines or long-acting monoclonal antibodies to prevent severe RSV-related diseases. It provides guidance on immunization schedules and timing, safety and contraindications, product choice, health system integration, surveillance, vaccination of special-population, and research priorities. This paper analyzes the position paper's implications for RSV immunization in China: (1) expanding the application of approved monoclonal antibodies; (2) speeding up the research, development, and introduction of immune products; (3) clarifying vaccination strategies and implementation paths; (4) improving monitoring and evaluation;(5) strengthening professional training and public education; (6) optimizing inter-departmental cooperation.