Respiratory Syncytial Virus in Yemen: A Minireview of Epidemiology, Surveillance Gaps, and Vaccine Readiness

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading cause of lung infections in young children, especially in countries like Yemen. Hospital studies show high RSV rates among children under five, but many cases in the community go unreported. Factors like indoor air pollution, tobacco smoke, poor nutrition, and crowded living conditions make the problem worse. Yemen’s health system struggles to respond due to conflict, limited resources, and weak surveillance. While new tools like RSV vaccines and monoclonal antibodies are now available in wealthy countries, Yemen is not yet ready to use them. Unlike Spain, which rolled out RSV protection successfully, Yemen lacks plans and funding to do the same. Without proper data and tracking, it’s hard to know when and where the virus spreads. This review calls for better surveillance, training for healthcare workers, and stronger public health planning. Global partnerships and support are key to help Yemen join the fight against RSV. Improving awareness and preparing the country for future vaccine rollouts will protect vulnerable children and close the gap between Yemen and other countries.