Frisco Seeing Cases of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) in Children
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory illness that can be fatal. It is most common in infants, children, and young adults. It is caused by a viral infection that can lead to serious breathing problems.
Children at high risk of getting RSV include those with underlying health conditions, such as asthma or allergies; those who are premature; and those who live in crowded conditions. Children younger than one-year-old are at the highest risk for severe complications from RSV infection, such as pneumonia and bronchiolitis (inflammation of the airway tubes).
How is RSV spread?
RSV is easily spread through direct contact with respiratory secretions (saliva or mucus from the nose and mouth) from an infected person. It can also be spread indirectly when someone touches contaminated surfaces (door handles, countertops) and then touches their eyes or nose before washing their hands.
The virus can also be spread through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes without covering their mouth and nose. Because RSV is so easily spread through touch and airborne droplets, it’s important to practice good hygiene habits, such as washing your hands often and avoiding close contact with people who are sick. However, sometimes it’s just a mild illness and clears up on its own, but it’s always important to consult your pediatrician, who may prescribe medication for your child if they get RSV.
Risk Factors of RSV
While RSV can affect people of all ages, it is most commonly seen in young children and infants. This is because their immune systems are not yet fully developed, and they are more likely to touch their faces after coming into contact with the virus.
Here are some of the risk factors for getting this infection:
- Having a family history of having RSV
- Being born prematurely or with low birth weight
- Being around someone with a cold or other respiratory illness (chronic lung disease)
- Being born with particular types of heart disease
- Being in a crowded setting like school or daycare
Symptoms of RSV
The symptoms of RSV depend on a person’s age. Adults and older children with RSV usually only experience mild cold symptoms. However, infants and young children often experience more severe symptoms. The symptoms of RSV include:
- Coughing or wheezing
- Fatigue
- Fever, which may be high
- Runny nose that may become thick and yellowish
- Mild to severe cough that may produce phlegm (mucus)
- Trouble breathing due to the inflammation of the bronchial tubes
- Decreased appetite
- Lethargy (low energy) or irritability
While most children get better in three to eight days, some may need medical treatment. If your child has any of these symptoms, it is important to talk to your pediatrician as soon as possible to begin treatment.
Prevention & Treatment
The best way to prevent RSV is to practice good hygiene habits, such as washing your hands often and avoiding close contact with people who are sick. You should also clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces regularly. There is no specific treatment for RSV; however, there are some things you can do to help relieve your symptoms:
- Get plenty of rest
- Drink lots of fluids
- Use a humidifier to moisten the air
- Avoid tobacco smoke
- Avoid touching your face
- Avoid sharing cups or eating utensils
- Clean all bedding and clothing in hot water
When To See A Doctor
If you’re a parent in Texas, you may be wondering when to see a doctor if your child is dealing with Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). It’s important to know the signs that your child has a respiratory infection and when to seek evaluation.
If your child has a fever, this is not necessarily an indication that they have a severe infection. As long as they are still eating, sleeping, and generally acting like themselves, there’s no need to worry. But if you see all the signs mentioned above in your child, this may indicate that your child is infected with RSV, then you should contact us or Phone: 469-425-3600 immediately.