Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
What is it?
It is an infection that can infect both adults and children. Usually the infection is mild and seems like a common cold. However, in young babies, it can cause serious problems such as pneumonia and severe breathing problems. In more extreme cases, it can even cause fatality. The highest risk is bore by premature babies and those with other health problems.
Cause:
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
Symptom:
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Fever
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Stuffy Nose
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Cough
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Trouble Breathing
RSV in a baby
How it spread:
It can be spread easily from a person to another via droplets from the nose and throat of infected people when they cough or sneeze. Rsv can also spread through dried respiratory secretions on bedclothes and similar items. Rsv can remain on hard surfaces for several hours and on skin for shorter amounts of time.
Treatment:
For mild infection, usually home treatments are enough. Replace the water lost through rapid breathing, fever, diarrhoea or vomiting by consuming enough fluid, but do not consume undiluted fruit juice, sports drink, soft drink and water (for babies). Medicine such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen could also provide relieve to the infected person. Antibiotic is not usually an option, but whenever the person develops complications, the doctor might prescribe antibiotics. When they do, the infected person must finish the antibiotics, even after they feel better to prevent the infection from returning.