If you have an infant, child or adult in your life who is at risk for RSV, it’s a good time to take notes on how to avoid it altogether. The virus spreads easily and can make anyone feel miserable. 

If you, your child or your parent has a higher risk of contracting the RSV virus, take precautions now to prevent getting sick later. There are many ways that you can help reduce the likelihood of contracting the flu or spreading it if you do get sick. With these tips, you can keep everyone healthy all year long. AFC Urgent Care Saugus understands we now have to add RSV into the wintery mix of viruses to worry about. For this reason, we created a guide on RSV so you and your family can avoid it!

How Can You Tell if Someone Has RSV?

To diagnose RSV, doctors usually rely on symptoms, and nasal swab tests. If you’re unsure if it’s RSV or something else, get it checked out.

Symptoms of RSV infection include: fever, cough, shortness of breath, runny nose, hoarse voice, and difficulty breathing, especially for infants and children. 

It’s important to note that these are also symptoms of other illnesses, so it’s important to see a doctor if you or your child has symptoms of an infection. 

Stay Away From People Who Are Sick With RSV

There has been a recent outbreak of RSV and it is just as contagious as the flu, COVID and other viruses. If you come into contact with someone who is sick, wash your hands. The same goes for surfaces and objects that may have become contaminated. 

Here are some other tips to keep in mind:

• If you are caring for a loved one who is sick, try to reduce your exposure to the virus. 

• Stay away from them as much as possible, and wash your hands often while visiting them. 

• If you are sick, stay home. 

• If you have to go out, try not to come into contact with others as much as possible. 

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. 

• Throw the tissue in the trash after you’re done.

• CONTINUE WEARING A MASK

Treating RSV At-home

Can RSV be treated? Although there is no cure, it can be treated and managed if symptoms are mild. Humidifiers and OTC medication may help lessen the symptoms. But it is important to pay attention as symptoms for infants and young children can cause breathing issues. Severe symptoms will need to be addressed by a medical professional. When in doubt, take your child to the hospital if they have trouble breathing.

AFC Urgent Care Saugus Can Help You Prevent Getting Sick This Holiday Season!

It's important to take precautions to prevent yourself and others from getting sick. Remember, the best way to stay healthy during the holiday season is to practice good hygiene. Stay away from people who are sick, wash your hands often and don’t touch your face without washing your hands. 

You can also get a flu shot to protect yourself from the influenza virus. Luckily for you, AFC Urgent Care Saugus offers the highly effective quadrivalent flu vaccine and COVID testing

Walk-in or make an appointment online!