2024-10-30 18:35:00
The annual epidemic of bronchiolitis, a dangerous disease for babies, has begun, Public Health France reported on Wednesday October 30. Last week was marked by the “passage of Ile-de-France, Guadeloupe and Martinique in epidemic and Brittany in pre-epidemic”summarized the health agency in a weekly report on acute respiratory infections.
Another signal: “Syndromic indicators linked to bronchiolitis were increasing in community medicine as well as in hospitals”more “remaining at levels lower than those observed in the three years prior to the same period”she noted.
Among the 1,552 children under 2 years old seen in the emergency room with bronchiolitis between October 21 and 27, 497 were hospitalized, almost all of them babies under 1 year old. Overseas, the epidemic has spread, knowing that Guyana has been affected by bronchiolitis since the end of July.
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Two preventive treatments
Every year, during the fall and winter, bronchiolitis strikes many French babies, most often following an infection with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which can also threaten the elderly.
This season is marked by the administration of two preventive treatments, Beyfortus, from AstraZeneca and Sanofi – an antibody given directly to babies -, and Abrysvo, from Pfizer – a vaccine administered before birth to pregnant women.
Beyfortus had already been the subject of an immunization campaign last year, and studies agree to conclude that it limited the hospitalization of babies in France and in the few other countries where it was tested. .
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Public Health France also took stock of the evolution of the Covid-19 epidemic and seasonal flu, against which a combined vaccination campaign began in mid-October for people at risk, such as the elderly.
For influenza, the cases detected in mainland France have remained until now “sporadic”while Reunion has been affected by an epidemic since the end of September. The decline of the coronavirus continued, perceptible in community medicine, in hospitals, but also in wastewater.
“In addition to vaccinations and preventive treatments, the adoption of barrier gestures remains essential to protect oneself from all winter diseases: hand washing, regular ventilation of rooms, wearing a mask in the event of symptoms, in frequented places and in the presence of vulnerable people”recalled Public Health France.
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**Interview with Dr. Camille Laurent, Pediatric Infectious Disease Specialist**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Laurent. Public Health France has reported the onset of the annual bronchiolitis epidemic. Can you tell us more about what this means for the infants and families affected?
**Dr. Laurent:** Thank you for having me. The commencement of the bronchiolitis epidemic is indeed concerning for both healthcare providers and families. Bronchiolitis primarily affects infants, particularly those under 1 year old, and can lead to serious respiratory issues. We are seeing an increase in hospital visits, with nearly a third of affected children being hospitalized, which underscores the urgency of the situation.
**Interviewer:** We’ve noted that the epidemic has spread to several regions, including Ile-de-France, Guadeloupe, and Martinique, while Brittany is seeing pre-epidemic signs. What factors contribute to the geographic spread of bronchiolitis?
**Dr. Laurent:** Bronchiolitis primarily spreads during the fall and winter months, often following infections with the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The conditions—like colder weather and increased indoor gatherings—facilitate the transmission of RSV, which is why we see variations in epidemic levels across different regions.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned hospitalization rates, particularly among babies under 1 year old. Can you discuss any preventive measures that can help reduce the severity of brochiolitis?
**Dr. Laurent:** Absolutely. This year, we have two key preventive treatments available: Beyfortus, an antibody that can be given directly to infants, and Abrysvo, a vaccine administered to pregnant women to provide passive immunity to their babies at birth. These treatments are crucial in reducing the incidence and severity of bronchiolitis, especially for vulnerable infants.
**Interviewer:** What advice do you have for parents as we enter this period of increased risk for bronchiolitis?
**Dr. Laurent:** Parents should take proactive steps, such as ensuring their babies are up to date with vaccinations and practicing good hygiene. It’s vital to avoid exposure to respiratory illnesses, which means limiting contact with sick individuals and maintaining a clean environment at home. If parents notice any signs of respiratory distress in their babies, such as wheezing or difficulty breathing, they should seek medical attention promptly.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Dr. Laurent. It’s important for families to be informed and prepared as we navigate this bronchiolitis season.
**Dr. Laurent:** Thank you for bringing attention to this critical health issue. Awareness and preparedness can make a significant difference in protecting our youngest and most vulnerable.
