Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common virus that infects the respiratory system during the winter. It can cause serious infections in young children and adults who have weak immune systems. The peak season for RSV is from November to March making it a threat along with the common cold, the flu and COVID. The point is, we have another virus to worry about and it’s not one that you want your child or grandparent to get this holiday season!
Any time someone is around a sick kid in an enclosed space, there’s a chance you could catch the virus, too. AFC Urgent Care West Hartford is aware of the recent surge of RSV cases in Connecticut and is here to test you for RSV, and give you tips on how you and your family can avoid getting RSV this holiday season.
What is the RSV virus?
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common virus most infants and young children deal with that affects their upper respiratory tract. Most children tend to grow out of it because their immune systems will develop and become stronger as they age. However, it can still affect adults and individuals who are immunocompromised or with conditions like asthma.
The virus usually spreads from person to person by direct contact with nasal secretions, such as through sneezing or coughing.
Symptoms of respiratory syncytial virus include:
- Cold like symptoms
- Fever
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Wheezing or difficulty breathing
Is there a test for RSV?
If you’re worried about your child’s health, you should get them tested for RSV right away. RSV test samples should be taken during the first few days after symptoms begin to get a better test result. Just like a COVID test, the amount of the virus in your nose decreases over time, which may make test results less accurate.
If you’re unsure if it’s RSV, COVID or something else, come get tested at AFC Urgent Care West Hartford. We offer the RSV nasal swab test!
Can you prevent RSV?
The best way to avoid RSV or any of the winter illnesses is to wash your hands regularly. Washing your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds can help reduce your chances of contracting RSV. We also highly suggest avoiding close contact with individuals who are sick. This might mean telling a relative not to come to your holiday party if they’re sick. You can never be too sure and you want to avoid spreading a virus like RSV or something else at your holiday party.
When in doubt, get tested for RSV at AFC Urgent Care West Hartford
If you follow the tips mentioned above, you’re sure to avoid the RSV virus this winter. But, if you’re unsure if you or your loved one has RSV, then it’s time to get tested. The risk is not knowing and the last thing you want is to infect someone else as you navigate through your holiday schedule.
Luckily for you, AFC Urgent Care West Hartford is open 7 days a week and can take walk-ins and appointments. We can test you for RSV any day of the week so you can have peace of mind this holiday season.
We hope you stay healthy this holiday season. Happy holidays!
