06:04 PM
Thursday, November 17, 2022
I wrote – Hoda Abdel Nasser:
The respiratory syncytial virus RSV raises a state of concern among parents, after its outbreak in schools among students, which prompted some to ask about the causes of infection, methods of transmission, how to detect it, and the means necessary to treat and prevent it.
In the following report, “The Consulto” reviews everything you need to know about respiratory syncytial virus, according to the “Medline Plus” website of the US National Library of Medicine.
Also read: RSV virus – information that may interest you
What is respiratory syncytial virus RSV?
A viral infection that targets the upper respiratory tract, especially the nose, sinuses, throat, larynx, and pharynx. It is more common in the winter season, because the cold weather increases its activity, stimulates it to multiply, and facilitates its transmission.
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What are the symptoms of respiratory syncytial virus RSV?
Symptoms of respiratory syncytial virus appear 4 days after being transmitted to the body, and include:
Dry cough.
– sneeze.
– High body temperature.
Headache.
bluish skin
– Breathing difficulty.
Feeling tired.
– Anorexia.
– Runny nose.
Chest wheezing.
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How is respiratory syncytial virus RSV transmitted?
RSV is usually transmitted through the following ways:
– Atmospheric air laden with droplets from the patient’s mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing.
Direct contact with patients.
– kisses.
Touching contaminated surfaces.
How long can a patient with RSV infect others?
The period during which a syncytial virus patient can transmit the infection to others varies according to the state of the immune system, as shown in the following:
Normal immunity: from 3 to 8 days.
Weak immunity: for up to 4 weeks.
Also read: Beware.. 5 diseases that may affect your child in the winter
Who is the most vulnerable group to infection with respiratory syncytial virus RSV?
Anyone can become infected with respiratory syncytial virus, but it is more threatening to some groups, namely:
– Babies.
Children at the age of two.
Elderly people, especially those over 65 years of age.
Those with weak immunity.
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Is respiratory syncytial virus RSV treatable?
So far, there is no definitive cure for syncytial virus, but symptoms often go away on their own within a week or two at most.
In severe cases of syncytial virus, doctors prescribe analgesics to relieve pain, and antipyretics to control fever, and they may resort to artificial respiration if the patient suffers from suffocation.
How can respiratory syncytial virus RSV be prevented?
It is easy to prevent respiratory syncytial virus, provided that a set of guidelines are adhered to, the most important of which are:
– Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Avoid touching the face, nose or mouth without washing hands.
Maintain social distancing when dealing with others.
Avoid shaking hands, kisses and hugs.
Clean and disinfect surfaces well.
Home isolation in case of infection.
– Covering the nose when coughing or sneezing with a tissue, then washing hands thoroughly.
Follow a healthy diet to boost immunity.
Witness: To prevent winter diseases – 6 eating habits that I follow daily (video graphic)