RSV, know the signs!

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common virus that infects the lungs and breathing passage ways. Though it may only produce minor cold symptoms in adults, it can lead to serious illness in young children. In an article posted on ScienceDaily, on March 16, 2012, the reader learns that RSV an extremely contagious virus. Though it peaks in winter, the virus may continue to affect communities through early spring," said Rahul Bhatia, MD, pediatric intensive care unit physician at Loyola University Health System. According to the Centers for Disease Control, RSV is the leading cause of bronchiolitis in infants under the age of 1. Most children will have been exposed to RSV by their second birthday. Unfortunately, there is no vaccine to protect children against this virus. In fact, the best way to prevent the virus is good, old-fashioned hand washing, researchers proclaim. According to Bhatia, symptoms typically peak around 5-7 days into the illness and can provide problems for 10-15 days. People with RSV are usually contagious for 3-8 days, but those with a weaken immune system may be contagious for up to four weeks. The top five concerning symptoms of RSV in children are 1. It has become increasingly more difficult for child to breathe 2. Child has nasal flaring 3. Child has a decreased appetite 4. Child is not breathing properly 5. Child has decreased urine output.



Here you can see where in the lungs RSV affects a child.