Ongoing monoclonal antibody trial against RSV

Alberto Villani, Area Coordinator of Paediatrics at the “Bambino Gesù” Children’s Hospital in Rome, offers commentary on the outcomes of the phase 2b/3 trial (MK-1654-004) of Clesrovimab, an investigational preventive monoclonal antibody against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). As indicated by the specialist, the monoclonal antibody is demonstrating efficacy in providing specific, enduring, and side-effect-free protection against a particularly severe disease that affects infants in their first months of life, namely bronchiolitis. In many cases, the disease may necessitate hospitalisation and even the provision of intensive care for several days. In rare instances, the disease may even prove fatal for the patient. Furthermore, the pathology has a considerable impact on the family unit, in addition to its effects on hospital operations and the National Health Service. The preliminary outcomes of the trial are promising, indicating a 90% reduction in hospitalisations and a decrease in direct and indirect costs. A study by Villani estimates that the future use of vaccination with the Clesrovimab being tested will result in savings of over one million euros per year for the Lazio region alone.