What is one of the recommended treatments for children at high risk for Bronchiolitis/RSV?

Palivizumab prophylaxis is recommended for children at high risk for Bronchiolitis and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection because it is a monoclonal antibody specifically designed to prevent severe RSV disease in vulnerable infants and young children. This group typically includes those born prematurely, children with certain congenital heart conditions, or those with chronic lung disease. By administering palivizumab, healthcare providers can significantly reduce the risk of hospitalization due to RSV, which is particularly important during the peak RSV season.

It’s important to recognize that while antibiotic therapy might be appropriate for bacterial superinfections, RSV is a viral infection, and antibiotics do not target viral pathogens. High-dose corticosteroids may have adverse effects and are not generally recommended for the treatment of bronchiolitis due to their potential to suppress the immune response rather than provide benefit. Antihistamines are typically used for allergic responses and do not address the viral nature of RSV, making them unsuitable for the treatment of bronchiolitis. Therefore, palivizumab prophylaxis stands as the appropriate preventive measure for this high-risk population.