Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common but often overlooked virus that can pose a significant risk to our little ones. As parents, it’s important to be able to recognise RSV so that we can safeguard our children and take the necessary steps to protect them.
RSV is one of the most common viruses to infect children
worldwide.1 By two years of age, 90 % of children will
have been infected with RSV at least once.[1]
RSV primarily affects the upper and lower respiratory
tracts, which includes the nose, throat, and lungs.[1]
(Images for illustration only)
How does RSV spread?
RSV spreads through droplets containing the virus when someone with the infection coughs or sneezes.[1,2] The virus can also live on surfaces such as toys, doorknobs, and even hands. [2] This makes places where children gather, like daycare centres or schools, hotspots for RSV transmission.
What are the signs and symptoms of RSV?
RSV symptoms range from mild to severe, often looking like the common cold or flu in early stages, which can make it difficult to diagnose. [3[ RSV may not be serious when it first starts, and early symptoms may include: [4]
- A runny nose
- Decrease in appetite
- Cough
While RSV generally causes mild, cold-like illness, it can become more severe after a few days causing serious illness and complications such as: [2]
These complications can become severe and life-threatening, requiring hospitalisation and intensive care. [1,2] This makes it important to be able to recognise the signs and symptoms of serious RSV so that you can get your child the help they need as soon as possible. Some warning signs include: [2]
RSV can sometimes present without symptoms. However, in infants less than 6 months old, it almost always presents with symptoms. [4] As a parent, you can look out for the following in your little one if you are concerned that they might have RSV: [4]
- Irritability
- Decreased activity
- Decreased appetite
- Apnoea (pauses in breathing)
Can I treat RSV at home?
In many cases, RSV can be treated at home. [2] You can do the following to help your child if they have RSV: [2]
- Ensure your child gets plenty of
- Provide your child with fluids to prevent
- Run a cool-mist vaporiser to help with
- Use saline drops to clear mucus from your child’s
- Reduce exposure to respiratory irritants (like smoke).
If you notice warning signs or alarming symptoms, it is essential to consult your healthcare professional as soon as possible.
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What happens if my child is hospitalised?
Severe RSV infection can lead to hospitalisation which can increase the risk of your child developing recurrent wheezing, childhood asthma, and allergic sensitisation, impacting your child in the long-term and potentially into adulthood. [1] This is why it’s essential that you consult with your healthcare professional if your child begins to exhibit any concerning symptoms.
If your child is hospitalised, they may be placed on oxygen, IV fluids, and/or a machine to help with breathing. [4] This type of supportive care helps most patients improve within a few days. [4]
How can I protect my child?
There are extra precautions you and your family can take to prevent the spread of RSV. These include: [4]
- Washing your hands frequently
- Avoiding close contact with sick people
- Covering your coughs and sneezes
- Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces
- Staying home when you are sick
(Images for illustration only)
These steps become especially important for children who have a higher risk of developing a severe RSV infection which increases their risk of complications. Vulnerable individuals include premature babies, babies less than 6 months old, and children with chronic medical conditions or weakened immune systems. [4]
These steps become especially important for children who have a higher risk of developing a severe RSV infection which increases their risk of complications. Vulnerable individuals include premature babies, babies less than 6 months old, and children with chronic medical conditions or weakened immune systems. [4]
Is there a vaccine for RSV? Although there is currently no approved vaccine for RSV available to South Africans, there is presently ongoing clinical research testing the effectiveness and safety of a new RSV vaccine which can be given to women during pregnancy to protect their newborns. [5]
The bottom line
RSV is a virus that commonly affects children but can easily go unnoticed. Importantly, RSV infection can lead to severe and potentially life-threatening complications. If you suspect that your child may have RSV, it’s essential to speak to your healthcare professional as soon as possible. By staying informed and vigilant, we can protect our little ones from this potentially serious disease and help them stay healthy!
References:
- Schweitzer JW, Justice Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection (RSV) [Internet]. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. StatPearls Publishing; 2023 [cited 2024 Nov 11]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459215/?report=printable.
- Seladi-Schulman RSV Season: When It Is, Symptoms, Prevention, Treatment [Internet]. Healthline. 2023 [cited 2024 Nov 11]. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/ health/rsv-season.
- Olson D. RSV: The Annual Epidemic You May Not Know About (But Should) [Internet]. National Foundation for Infectious Diseases. 2016 [cited 2024 Nov 1]. Available from: https://nfid.org/rsv-the-annual-epidemic-you-may-not-know-about-but-should/.
- Centers for Disease Control and RSV in Infants and Young Children [Internet]. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases. 2022 [cited 2024 Nov 11]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/infants-young-children/index.html.
- WITS Pfizer RSV Vaccine Study [Internet]. Wits RHI. 2024 [cited 2024 Nov 13]. Available from: https://wrhi.ac.za/projects/pfizer-rsv-vaccine-study-2/.
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