Since RSV is in the news so often, here are some facts and tips for staying healthy:
Respiratory syncytial (sin-SISH-uhl) virus, or RSV, is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Most people recover in a week or two, but RSV can be serious. Infants and older adults are more likely to develop severe RSV and need hospitalization. If you are age 60 or older, a vaccine is available to protect you from severe RSV. If you are pregnant, you can get an RSV vaccine between 32–36 weeks of pregnancy to protect your infant after birth, or a preventive antibody can be given to your baby after birth.
Symptoms: People infected with RSV usually show symptoms within 4 to 6 days after getting infected. Symptoms of RSV infection usually include:
- Runny nose
- Decrease in appetite
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Fever
- Wheezing
These symptoms usually appear in stages and not all at once. In very young infants with RSV, the only symptoms may be irritability, decreased activity, and breathing difficulties.
RSV can spread when:
- An infected person coughs or sneezes
- You get virus droplets from a cough or sneeze in your eyes, nose, or mouth
- You have direct contact with the virus, like kissing the face of a child with RSV
- You touch a surface that has the virus on it, like a doorknob, and then touch your face before washing your hands
People are typically infected with RSV for the first time as an infant or toddler and nearly all children are infected before their second birthday. However, repeat infections may occur throughout life, and people of any age can be infected.
Take steps to relieve symptoms: Manage fever and pain with over-the-counter fever reducers and pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. (Never give aspirin to children). Drink enough fluids. It is important for people with any illness to drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration (loss of body fluids).Talk to your healthcare provider before giving your child nonprescription cold medicines. Some medicines contain ingredients that are not good for children.
Severe RSV: Most of the time RSV will cause a mild, cold-like illness, but it can also cause severe illness such as Bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lung) or Pneumonia (infection of the lungs)
Some people are at increased risk of severe RSV disease, including those who have chronic lung or heart disease or a weakened immune system.
Two to three out of every 100 infants and older adults with RSV infections may need to be hospitalized.
To avoid the spread of all diseases, wash your hands well, sanitize surfaces such as door knobs and remotes and avoid crowded places unless wearing a mask for protection. Stay home when sick and get plenty of rest.
Have a Healthy and Happy Holiday Season,
Nurse Rose Hess RN. BSN. LSN. Your Westwood School Nurse
