RSV infection

RSV stands for Respiratory Syncytial Virus. It is a virus that usually causes a common cold in adults. But it is a dangerous virus for children.

The RSV virus is transmitted from person to person through the droplets released when coughing and speaking. The infection is usually very mild with normal nasal discharge and without fever.

But sometimes it causes quite serious complaints in children such as shortness of breath and severe coughing due to bronchiolitis or pneumonia. Hospitalization is necessary for 1 in 100 children. Oxygen and aerosols can then be administered in the hospital. Antibiotics are certainly not recommended. Children born prematurely and children younger than 6 months are particularly at risk.

As a preventive measure, contact between these children and adults with a cold can be avoided. Breastfeeding is also said to help provide protection during the first three months of life. The disease can be contracted several times and there is no vaccine available.

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 0000-00-00 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024