Pediatrician Highlights Key Facts on RSV: Symptoms and Prevention

As winter approaches, parents are increasingly concerned about Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), a common illness that affects young children. Pediatrician Dr. Seth Brown explains that the cold, dry air of winter not only facilitates the virus’s survival but also increases the likelihood of close contact among individuals. This combination creates a prime environment for RSV transmission during the colder months.

RSV is a viral infection that primarily targets the lungs and respiratory tract. By the age of two, most children will have contracted the virus at least once. Symptoms typically include a congested or runny nose, dry cough, low-grade fever, sore throat, sneezing, and headaches. In more severe cases, particularly in children under two, the virus can cause difficulty breathing and poor feeding, as well as increased sleepiness.

The incubation period for RSV is generally around five days, making early detection crucial. Given the overlap in symptoms with illnesses such as COVID-19 and influenza, Dr. Brown advocates for testing when symptoms arise. “There are actually quite a few systems that do overlap,” he states, emphasizing the importance of accurate virus detection.

According to data from Ballad Health, approximately five percent of children admitted to their hospital system are diagnosed with RSV. The virus has a mortality rate of about 1 in 100,000 in the United States, highlighting the need for vigilance during peak RSV season.

Dr. Brown stresses the importance of prevention, pointing out that even a single preventable illness can lead to severe disease or death. One of the most effective methods to reduce the risk of RSV transmission is proper hand hygiene. Regular hand washing for at least 20 seconds is recommended, with hand sanitizer serving as a reliable alternative when soap and water are unavailable.

Cough etiquette is equally important; individuals should cough into their elbows or use tissues, followed by immediate hand washing. Another critical preventive measure is avoiding exposure to tobacco smoke, which can damage airways and impair immune responses. “Cigarette smoke damages airways, increases inflammation, impairs immune responses and actually promotes cell death,” Dr. Brown notes.

For expectant mothers, an RSV vaccine is available and recommended between 32-36 weeks gestation. This vaccination is particularly effective in protecting newborns from the virus. Additionally, Dr. Brown encourages older individuals and those who are immunocompromised to discuss vaccination options with their healthcare providers to enhance their protection against RSV.

As RSV cases rise during the winter months, awareness and preventive measures become vital in safeguarding the health of young children and vulnerable populations.