Modern approaches to the prevention of frequent respiratory infections in childhood

Abstract

In recent decades, there has been significant progress in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI), including influenza. The authors summarized the current literature data regarding the clinical effectiveness of the antiviral and immunomodulatory drug inosine pranobex in the prevention and treatment of frequent recurrent respiratory infections in children. The results of recent studies have shown that during the COVID-19 pandemic, non-drug restrictive measures influenced the typical seasonal patterns of circulation of various respiratory viruses and bacteria. Continuous monitoring of these viruses is necessary to take preventive measures and improve forecasting, in particular, to optimize the use of antiviral drugs, especially among children with frequent episodes of SARS, as well as those at risk of their severe course. Resistance to pathogens can be achieved by specific vaccination (against influenza, pertussis, pneumococcal, hemophilic infection, etc.), the introduction of immunoglobulins, monoclonal antibodies (for the prevention of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection). However, the specific prevention of highly pathogenic and highly virulent viral infections (influenza, SARS-CoV-2) has its limitations due to the high variability of these viruses. Therefore, the focus of therapeutic and preventive measures against ARVI is increasingly shifting towards non-specific prevention based on the use of safe and effective antiviral drugs, drugs that can prevent the development of the disease and at the same time affect its course, ensuring a favorable outcome. One of the drugs of choice in the prevention and treatment of ARI is inosine pranobex, especially in children with a burdened premorbid background and in cases where a complex antiviral and immunomodulatory action is required. In the absence of the effect of preventive measures for 3 months, an in-depth examination of the child in a polyclinic or hospital and an individual selection of appropriate treatment are shown.