Respiratory Syncytial Virus A CHILDHOOD MALADY

History  RSV,which stands for Respiratory Syncytial Virus, is a severe disease that can lead to a lower respiratory system in infants.  This virus can lead to extreme complications of the bronchioles in children under 2.  It’s name is derived from its characteristics called syncytium.  RSV is also called Bronchiolitis.

Causes/ Prevention  RSV is caused by a group of viruses found throughout the world.  This virus is a disease that occurs during winter or early spring.  This disease spreads through close contact with an infected person.  To reduce the risk of acquiring it, you are advised to stay at least 6 ft away from infected children.  Frequent hand washing, especially after sneezing or coughing  Children under 18 months should stay out of crowd ness.

Symptoms  RSV attacks the lower respiratory system in infants and the upper respiratory system in adults.  When it has gone to a severe stage the results is death, mostly in infants.  Others - fever - sore throat - wheezing - rapid breathing - shortness of breath - cyanosis (bluish tinge of the skin)

Treatment  Medical professionals encourage a lot of fluids.  Antibiotics are useless, so the body makes its own antibodies to fight the infection.  Other home care treatment for infants  Cool mist humidifier to alleviate congestion  Give acetaminophen for fever, such as Tylenol etc…  Keep children away from crowded environment

Life cycle/other  RSV infection runs from 7-14 days.  Some symptoms make take longer to go away.  Having had the infection does not guaranteed permanent immunity from it again.  The top Picture is of a Bronchiolitis cell.  Bottom picture is of an RSV virus cell.

The End