RSV is an illness that has led to increased hospitalizations across the U.S. and requires immediate care for some patient groups. Therefore you need to stay aware of the risk of RSV spread in your state and how to prevent it. Follow the guide below for more information.
What is RSV?
If you are unaware of RSV, you have most likely had it and forgotten it came. With symptoms closely related to cold, many people have and get over RSV within 2 to 3 weeks. However, it can almost be life-threatening for other people. It is also sometimes called human orthopneumovirus or hRSV, where the h stands for human. Like many other respiratory viruses, it is airborne and highly contagious. The virus attacks the respiratory systems, such as the tracts and nose, then fuses and releases the effects which cause the symptoms.
Normally, recovery occurs after 2 weeks or less. But if you are at high-risk, it can lead to pneumonia or bronchiolitis.
Causes of RSV
The major contact method of RSV is through direct contact and ingestion of infected air. The virus enters the body through the mouth, eyes, and nose. Therefore if someone that’s infected coughs, wheezes, or sneezes close to you, that’s one way to contract the virus. Another way is when you hug, handshake, or hold hands with an infected person.
Signs and Symptoms
Though it is advisable you go to the urgent care center to report any illness, it is also okay if you observe yourself for any of these symptoms. If RSV is mild, the following are the signs to expect;
- Sore throat
- Mild fever
- Mild cough
- Mild headache
- Stuffy and runny nose
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, visit an urgent care clinic immediately for treatment. In severe cases, the symptoms can include the following:
- Serious fever
- Severe and continuous coughing
- Wheezing
- Rapid breathing’
- Difficulty in breathing
- Discoloration of skin
If you are experiencing any severe symptoms, report to an ER immediately for treatment.
Prevention Measures
You can prevent the transfer of RSV with three methods. Face masks, regular hand-washing, and avoiding crowds go a long way to prevent the transfer of the virus. Recommended face masks filter the air that comes in and out ensuring that you are at a lower risk of contacting even if someone sneezes. In the same way, wash your hands often, especially after touching any surface. A hand-sanitizer can also be very effective here. Finally, avoid crowds as much as you can to reduce the risk of exposure. Additional prevention measures include washing your hands before you touch children or carry babies.
RSV Circulation in Each State
While states differ, most positive antigen detection RSV tests are moving at a 3 weeks average. Also, RSV detections in many cities are moving at 5 weeks on average. That is why it is best to prevent people that are at higher risk from exposure. Children, older people, and those with a low immune system should always adopt preventive measures.
Conclusion
Follow public health officials to find out about local and state-level RSV risks. Make sure that you prevent the spread by washing hands and avoiding crowded spaces. If you need RSV testing and treatment, then visit a local urgent care center.
