Respiratory Syncytial Virus European Laboratory Network 2022 Survey: Need for Harmonization and Enhanced Molecular Surveillance
Lance D Presser, Willem M R van den Akker, Adam Meijer, Jeroen Aerssens, Gabriela Ispas, Bahar Ahani, Jessica Atwell, Elizabeth Begier, Tin Tin Htar, Mathieu Bangert, Rolf Kramer, Charlotte Vernhes, Philippe Beutels, Louis Bont, Harry Campbell, Harish Nair, You Li, Richard Osei-Yeboah, Xin Wang, Rachel Cohen, Gael Dos Santos, Theo Last, Veena Kumar, Nuria Machin, Hanna Nohynek, Peter Openshaw, John Paget, Andrew Pollard, Anne Teirlinck,- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology and Allergy
Abstract
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common pathogen causing mostly cold-like symptoms, but in very young infants and elderly individuals it can lead to severe disease and even death. There are currently promising developments both in vaccine development and in therapeutics which are expected to be approved soon. To get an impression within European countries of the laboratory diagnostics and surveillance activities, in anticipation of these developments, we queried the members of the European Respiratory Syncytial Virus Laboratory Network (RSV-LabNet, under the umbrella of the PROMISE project) via an online survey. The answers from the Consortium members showed scattered monitoring and the application of a broad array of techniques in the laboratories. A majority of the members expressed strong interest in harmonization and collaboration for setting up surveillance programs and the need for sharing laboratory protocols. The additional value of RSV whole-genome sequencing is broadly appreciated but implementation requires further development and closer collaboration. The RSV-LabNet can have an important responsibility in establishing contacts, exchange of expertise and providing a platform for communication to advance diagnostics, preparedness, and surveillance.