Sunshine Daycare

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that primarily infects the lungs and respiratory tract. While most children will have been infected with RSV by the age of 2, adults can also contract the virus. In adults and older children, the symptoms are generally mild and resemble those of a common cold. However, RSV can be particularly severe in infants, especially those under 12 months, as well as in older adults, individuals with heart and lung diseases, and those with weakened immune systems​​​​.

The symptoms of RSV typically appear four to six days after exposure. They include:

• Congested or runny nose
• Dry cough
• Low-grade fever
• Sore throat
• Sneezing
• Headache

In more severe cases, RSV can progress to affect the lower respiratory tract, leading to pneumonia or bronchiolitis. Symptoms of a more severe infection may include high fever, severe cough, wheezing, rapid breathing or difficulty in breathing, and a bluish skin color due to lack of oxygen​​.

Infants are particularly vulnerable to RSV. Severe symptoms in infants can include:

• Short, shallow, and rapid breathing
• Difficulty breathing, with chest muscles and skin pulling inward with each breath
• Cough
• Poor feeding
• Unusual tiredness
• Irritability​​

RSV is highly contagious. It enters the body through the eyes, nose, or mouth and spreads through infected respiratory droplets. It can also be passed through direct contact, like handshaking, and can live for hours on hard objects like countertops and toys. Infants and people with weakened immunity can spread the virus even after their symptoms have subsided​​.

Those at increased risk of severe RSV infection include:

• Infants, especially premature infants or those under 6 months
• Children with congenital heart disease or chronic lung disease
• Children or adults with weakened immune systems
• Adults with heart or lung disease
• Older adults, particularly those aged 65 and older​​

Diagnosis is typically based on physical examination and the time of year when symptoms occur. Doctors may use tests like blood tests, chest X-rays, swab tests, and pulse oximetry to diagnose RSV and its complications or to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms​​.

Treatment for RSV is usually focused on alleviating symptoms. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required for treatments like intravenous fluids, humidified oxygen, or mechanical ventilation. Over-the-counter medications can reduce fever, and nasal saline drops may help clear congestion. It’s important to ensure adequate hydration and avoid exposure to cigarette smoke​​.

Preventative measures include:

• Staying home when sick
• Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or sleeve
• Washing hands frequently with soap and water
• Avoiding touching the face with unwashed hands
• Avoiding close contact with others
• Cleaning frequently touched surfaces​​