Assistant Professor Dr Lindsay Broadbent, a virologist from the University of Surrey, delved into the science of RSV. She explained how RSV is the leading cause of hospitalisation in infants, particularly those under six months old due to their immature immune systems. Dr Broadbent shared that while most infections are mild, a significant number result in severe disease, often requiring hospitalisation. She also discussed new advancements in RSV prevention, such as monoclonal antibody treatments and vaccines for pregnant women, which provide extended protection to infants. Dr Broadbent emphasised the need for further research to understand why some children develop severe RSV while others do not, and how early RSV infections can affect long-term lung health, potentially leading to conditions like asthma.