What is respiratory syncytial virus?
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is, as its name implies, a virus. It can cause respiratory illness in people of all ages, but generally, all children up to the age of 2 are infected with this virus, and reinfection can occur at any age. This virus is the most common cause of lower respiratory tract disease up to 12 months of age.
What symptoms does this virus cause?
Symptoms and severity can vary with several factors such as the age or health status of the child/person><. The most frequent are:
Usually, the symptoms decrease in severity after the third infection with this virus.
What are the main consequences of this virus?
The diagnoses associated with respiratory syncytial virus are most commonly:
- bronchiolitis
- tracheobronchitis (inflammation in the trachea and bronchi)
- pneumonia
- conjunctivitis
- acute otitis media
Who is most affected by this virus?
The most vulnerable groups are:
- newborns and infants (<6 months of age)
- Premature babies
- children with congenital heart, lung or neuromuscular diseases
- immunocompromised children
- patients with asthma or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
How is this virus diagnosed?
In most situations, laboratory identification of this virus is not necessary, because it will not alter the therapy instituted. Diagnosis is made by collecting respiratory secretions such as secretions from the nose or bronchi.
At what time of year is infection with this respiratory syncytial virus more frequent?
In Portugal, respiratory syncytial virus outbreaks typically occur in the winter months (December and January), but can also occur in October/November to April/May.
The measures imposed during the COVID19 pandemic, such as the use of masks, social distancing or the closure of daycare centers/schools contributed to the decrease in transmission during this period, with a return of transmission outside the usual periods.
How is this virus transmitted?
Respiratory syncytial virus is transmitted by introducing the virus through the nose, eyes or mouth after contact with secretions or objects containing the virus.
Is respiratory syncytial virus contagious?
yes. Respiratory syncytial virus is very contagious. It can survive several hours on contaminated hands or objects. Transmission between siblings is very common.
What is the incubation period of this virus?
Generally, the incubation period varies between 2 and 8 days.
How can I prevent respiratory syncytial virus infections?
Preventing the transmission of infections is similar to other viruses:
- Hand washing
- Respiratory etiquette:
- cover your mouth/nose with a handkerchief or arm when sneezing or coughing
- Do not sneeze/cough into your hands
- washing hands after coughing/sneezing
- Avoid exposure to tobacco or other fumes
Is there a vaccine for respiratory syncytial virus?
yes. There are currently vaccines on the market for the prevention of lower respiratory tract diseases caused by respiratory syncytial virus. Indications include adults aged 60 and over and pregnant women between 24 and 36 weeks of gestation.
Is it possible to prevent respiratory syncytial virus?
There are medications, which are monoclonal antibodies used to prevent disease caused by respiratory syncytial virus in premature babies, those with chronic diseases or newborns up to 8 months (up to 19 months in some cases), whose administration decision is made on a case-by-case basis and should be guided by a doctor.
Source: Shared Services of the Ministry of Health (SPMS)