Rainy Season Alert! RSV Virus: A Serious Threat to Infants, Risking Pneumonia

     During the rainy season, children often get sick and can contract various infections, including the RSV virus, which is quite common. It is typically found in children under 2 years old, but can also affect those up to 5.

What is RSV?

     RSV or Respiratory Syncytial Virus is a virus that causes respiratory illnesses ranging from the common cold to sore throat, bronchitis, bronchiolitis, and pneumonia. It usually begins with symptoms like fever, runny nose, nasal congestion, and coughing with phlegm. If the disease worsens, it can lead to wheezing, fatigue, and difficulty breathing.

What Are the Consequences of RSV Infection?

     Initially, RSV infection presents symptoms similar to a cold, but if it worsens, it can lead to pneumonia. In severe cases, respiratory failure may occur, requiring mechanical ventilation.

Symptoms of RSV in Children

• Begins with fever, nasal congestion, runny nose, and coughing with phlegm.
• As it progresses to bronchiolitis or pneumonia, symptoms may include rapid breathing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
• Possible vomiting, inability to eat, fatigue, and lethargy.
• Children with pre-existing conditions like asthma, lung disease, or heart issues are at higher risk for severe symptoms and should see a doctor early.

The Diagnosis of RSV Infection

     Diagnosis primarily relies on symptoms and a doctor's physical examination. A chest X-ray may be necessary if bronchiolitis or pneumonia is suspected. Initial RSV diagnosis can be done using a nasal swab, providing results in about 30 minutes. However, other viruses or bacteria can also cause pneumonia so additional testing may be needed for differential diagnosis.

RSV Disease Treatment

Treatment mainly depends on the severity of the illness, including:

• Fever-reducing medications if fever is present.
• IV fluids if the child cannot eat.
• Oxygen support in the hospital for rapid breathing and shortness of breath.
• Bronchodilator medications may be administered for wheezing; in cases of respiratory failure, intubation, and mechanical ventilation may be necessary until symptoms improve.

RSV Infection Protection

RSV spreads through close contact with respiratory secretions from infected individuals, such as mucus and saliva. Currently, there is no vaccine, so prevention includes:

• Caregivers and those around the child should wash their hands frequently with soap and water or alcohol gel.
• Personal items of the infected child should be separated and cleaned regularly, including toys.
• Sick children should stay home until they recover fully.
• Avoid crowded places and close contact with infected individuals.
• Adults should be cautious about coming into contact with sick children.

RSV starts with cold-like symptoms and can escalate to respiratory failure. If suspect your child has symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.