SK bioscience, a global innovative vaccine and biotech company committed to promoting human health from prevention to cure, today announced that the company is participating in the 48th BeFe Baby Fair at COEX, Seoul, from August 14 to 17 to raise awareness of RSV. The initiative is designed to share information and practical tips with visitors ahead of the RSV season, who are parents of young children and expectant mothers.

During the event, SK bioscience will show informational videos on RSV and prevention measures, offer one-on-one consultations with professional nurses, and conduct surveys to gauge RSV awareness among visitors and expectant mothers. The company plans to leverage the fair, the largest pregnancy, childbirth, and childcare event in Korea, as a key opportunity to raise public awareness of RSV and promote preventive action.

RSV often causes symptoms similar to those of the common cold, such as cough, fever, and runny nose, but it can progress to severe illness. It is also the leading cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in infants under one year of age.

It is estimated that 90% of children worldwide are infected with RSV before the age of two. Early infection can result in longer recovery times and a higher risk of developing asthma, underscoring the importance of prevention and early treatment.

High-risk groups, including premature infants, children with heart or lung conditions, immunocompromised individuals, and the elderly, may experience severe respiratory distress requiring hospitalization. In rare cases, RSV can be fatal. The virus spreads not only through droplets from coughing or sneezing, but also via contaminated hands and surfaces, highlighting the critical role of hand hygiene and other preventive measures.

The global health authorities, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), recommend administering long-acting RSV antibody injections to infants and high-risk children ahead of the RSV season. A single dose given before the season begins can provide protection for around five months, helping protect against lower respiratory tract infections caused by RSV.

Suan Yoo, Head of Domestic Marketing at SK bioscience, said, “RSV spreads rapidly and can lead to severe bronchiolitis or pneumonia in infants with underdeveloped lungs, sometimes requiring hospitalization. Through this campaign, we aim to help more parents stay vigilant and take proactive steps to prevent infection.”

Meanwhile, SK bioscience is committed to developing and delivering preventive solutions for RSV and other infectious diseases and will continue to pursue a range of initiatives and campaigns to promote public health.