Palivizumab for respiratory syncytial virus immunoprophylaxis in high-risk populations in Qatar: a call for action

INTRODUCTION: Preterm and high-risk infants are at increased risk of severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection, leading to prolonged hospitalization, intensive care unit admissions, respiratory support and death. Although, RSV prevention is a major health priority in Qatar, national guidelines for RSV prophylaxis are currently lacking. AREAS COVERED: This expert opinion summarizes the burden of RSV in Qatar and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) along with current immunoprophylaxis practices and real-world evidence on the effectiveness of palivizumab in high-risk infants. Evidence from a literature review was supplemented by expert insights relevant to Qatar and the GCC to address data gaps and heterogeneity in RSV prophylaxis. The integrated findings support context-specific recommendations. EXPERT OPINION: A steering committee with 16 experts was convened in December 2024 to review the available evidence and discuss challenges in RSV prevention among high-risk infants in Qatar. The experts reviewed the literature and reached consensus for the recommendations. This paper provides a localized, evidence-based action plan for the healthcare community, while facilitating optimal utilization of resources and cost-effective practices for RSV prophylaxis in Qatar. It also acknowledges the necessity to collaborate with other GCC countries and develop a regional protocol to further strengthen the RSV prevention efforts.