Respiratory syncytial virus vaccine research and development: World Health Organization technological roadmap and preferred product characteristics

The respiratory syncytial virus causes a considerable respiratory disease burden globally, most markedly in young infants, in low and middle income countries. A diverse product pipeline illustrates the recent intensification of research and development activities for vaccines and monoclonal antibodies against RSV. With the aim to ensure that product development activities are directed to address the public health needs, the World Health Organization has developed a research and development technical roadmap and articulated product characteristics preferences.