EMERGING VACCINES AND MONOCLONALANTIBODY THERAPIES IN PEDIATRIC INFECTIOUS DISEASES

Background: Pediatric infectious diseases continue to impose major morbidity and mortality worldwide, particularly from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), dengue, and influenza. Recent advances in vaccinology and monoclonal antibody (mAb) platforms have transformed prophylaxis in infancy and early childhood. This review synthesizes current evidence on vaccine and mAb innovations, emphasizing clinical efficacy, safety, implementation feasibility, and cost-effectiveness from a physician's perspective. Methods: A narrative synthesis of peer-reviewed clinical trials, guideline statements, and cost-modeling analyses published between 2020 and 2025 was undertaken, focusing on pediatric populations and preventive immunotherapeutics. Results: Novel maternal and infant RSV vaccines (RSVpreF, nirsevimab), updated pediatric COVID-19 mRNAformulations, live-attenuated and tetravalent dengue vaccines (TAK-003), and next-generation universal influenza candidates have demonstrated robust immunogenicity and safety in children. Long-acting mAbs now offer season-long passive protection. Despite scientific progress, equitable rollout remains constrained by pricing, regulatory delays, and cold-chain demands. Conclusion: Integrating vaccine and mAb strategies through maternal immunization, infant protection, and strengthened public-health delivery can drastically reduce preventable pediatric mortality. Clinician involvement in surveillance, advocacy, and translational research is pivotal for sustaining these gains.