Research team helps bring new RSV protection to babies across the UK

A research study delivered at Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has helped introduce a new protection against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) for babies across the country.

The Clinical Research team at the Trust, led by Principal Investigator Dr Girish Gowda, Consultant Paediatrician, and supported by Senior Clinical Research Practitioner Laura McCafferty, recruited 17 babies into the HARMONIE study. The study tested a single antibody injection called Nirsevimab, designed to protect babies under 12 months old from serious illness caused by RSV.

Thanks to the contribution of families here in Swindon and more than 3,000 families across the UK, Nirsevimab has now been approved and included in the national childhood immunisation schedule.

RSV is a common virus that affects the respiratory tract and lungs. For many babies, it causes only mild symptoms such as coughs and colds, but for some, it can lead to serious infections including bronchiolitis and pneumonia, sometimes requiring hospital or even intensive care. Nationally, one in six children admitted to hospital are because of RSV, and one in ten children admitted to intensive care are due to RSV.

Dr Girish Gowda said:
“We are delighted to have played a part in this important research, which will help protect so many children from serious illness. I would like to thank all of the families who took part in the study here at GWH. Their contribution has helped achieve a change that will benefit babies across the UK for years to come.”

The Clinical Research team at GWH continues to support a wide range of studies, giving patients and families in Swindon and Wiltshire the opportunity to be part of research that improves treatments, care, and outcomes.