General overview of Respiratory Syncytial Virus

Seasonal and extremely contagious, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) frequently mimics a typical cold in symptoms. However, serious signs and consequences are more likely to occur in newborns and some adults. 

It results in respiratory tract and lung infections. Due to its widespread distribution, most kids have the virus by the time they turn two. Adults can contract the respiratory syncytial virus as well. 

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) symptoms are minor and usually resemble the common cold in adults and older, healthy children. Usually, self-care techniques and getting OTC medicines from the pharmacy in Houston are sufficient to ease any discomfort. To properly recover, some people, however, require oxygen, fluids, or additional medical treatment.

Some individuals are more susceptible to serious infection from RSV than others. These individuals include older adults, those with heart and lung conditions, premature newborns, babies 12 months of age or younger, and those with weakened immune systems.

Keep reading to learn more about the common RSV symptoms, prevention, and treatment options!

RSV signs & symptoms

RSV symptoms usually appear four to six days following exposure. Early signs are frequently non-threatening and resemble a normal cold. Typical RSV signs & symptoms could be:  

• Cough.
• Nasal discharge. 
• Clogging.
• Sneezing.
• Tender throat.
• Slight headache.
• Lack of energy.
• Fever.
  Reduced hunger.
• Absence of desire to play (in infants and early childhood).

Common cold symptoms aren’t always present in babies under six months old. Rather, they might only:

• Seem picky or irritated.
• Lack of enthusiasm for playing.
• See a decrease in hunger.
• Variations in their breathing habits.

Severe RSV symptoms 

The infection may cause a serious respiratory illness in certain situations.
Symptoms of severe infections could include: 

• Trouble breathing. 
• Breathing pauses or short, shallow, and rapid breathing.
• Breathing causes the nose to flare up, or expand out.
• Whining.
• Noisy breathing
• Gray or blue skin tone.

When dealing with severe RSV symptoms, consult a healthcare professional right away! 

Prevention of RSV

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) spreads quickly from one person to another. The following actions should be taken to stop the transmission of RSV, particularly if you have cold-like symptoms:

• Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds.
• Avoid touching your face with dirty hands.
• Stay away from making physical contact with individuals, especially if they are ill. This includes not kissing, shaking hands, or sharing cutlery.

RSV Protection in Infants

Doctors advise taking the following actions to prevent RSV in newborns and young children, particularly in those who are at high risk:

• Spend at least 20 seconds cleaning their hands.
• Doorknobs, handles, and counters are examples of surfaces that should be cleaned frequently.
• When coughing, keep your mouth and nose covered.
• Avoid being exposed to tobacco smoke.

Palivizumab, an RSV medication, may be provided to your kid to reduce or prevent serious RSV sickness in high-risk newborns and children under the age of two. During the RSV season, palivizumab injections are administered once a month if required. Although palivizumab is not a vaccination, it uses antibodies that combat viruses to protect against RSV.

Treatment options for RSV 

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) does not have a specific treatment for either children or adults. Medical professionals advise applying remedies you would normally use for a cold. As an illustration, you may:

• Take over-the-counter (OTC) RSV medications for adults such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to treat a fever. Be sure to see your physician or provider before taking any drugs.
• To aid in breathing, use a humidifier with a cool mist.
• For newborns, use suctioning and nasal saline spray to reduce tightness and cough.
• Keep yourself well-hydrated to prevent dehydration. The objective is to control the RSV signs and symptoms while it progresses.

Treatment for severe RSV

With severe RSV, babies, kids, and adults might need to stay in the hospital for a few days or longer to recover. Suppliers could

• Provide oxygen via a breathing machine (ventilator), mask, or nasal prongs.
• Give you fluids via IV.
• Clear the mucus from your airways.

To wrap it up! 

In this blog, we have explained everything you need to know about Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Right from the general overview of the same to RSV symptoms, prevention, and treatment options. 

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is generally not considered a deadly disease, sharing similarities with the common cold and flu. With appropriate RSV medications for adults and children along with proper guidance, most individuals can recover effectively. 

However, it’s crucial to seek professional guidance if experiencing severe RSV symptoms, especially among vulnerable groups like infants, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems.

When seeking RSV medications to alleviate symptoms, it’s advisable to obtain them from reputable community pharmacies. If you are looking for the leading community pharmacy in Houston, then reach out to Scott Read Pharmacy. We have a wide range of high-quality medications available.