Disease burden and quality of life in caregivers of infants with RSV lower respiratory tract infections in Japan

The economic burden of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) and caregiver quality of life (QOL) were assessed in a population-based epidemiological study of infant RSV LRTI in Chiba, Japan. Medical costs were calculated based on diagnosis procedure data, and multiplied by the average number of hospitalization days. Outpatient medical costs were calculated as the cost per visit and laboratory fees. Productivity loss was calculated by multiplying the number of days spent in the care of guardians. The QOL of caregivers was assessed by directly administering the EuroQol five-dimensional-five-level (EQ-5D-5L) questionnaire to guardians. These data can be extrapolated to the national level, estimating an overall economic burden of JPY 5.3 billion, including JPY 2.5 billion in medical expenses and JPY 2.8 billion in productivity loss. Low QOL scores were observed, with 70–80% of respondents experiencing issues in the “anxiety and depression” and “usual activity” including mobility and self-care dimensions of the EQ-5D-5L scale. Stratified analysis revealed lower QOL scores among those with RSV infection. RSV LRTI imposes a significant social and economic burden on children and their caregivers. This information could be instrumental in advancing discussions on RSV preventive measures in the National Immunization Program.