Bisnis.com, JAKARTA – Respiratory Syncytial Virus or commonly called RSV is a type of virus that attacks the respiratory tract. This virus is susceptible to babysmall children, and elderly.
The RSV virus usually attacks premature babies and very young children. This virus tends to more easily infect children under 2 years old, children who have chronic lung disease or congenital heart disease, children with weak immune systems, and children who have neuromuscular disorders (difficulty swallowing).
Reporting from Yale MedicineMonday (14/10/2024) there were around 2.1 million children under the age of 5 receiving outpatient care, 58 thousand to 80 thousand children were hospitalized, and 100 to 300 children died due to the RSV virus.
Thomas Murray, a pediatric infectious disease specialist from Yale Medicine, said that the RSV virus is vulnerable to children because their immune systems are not yet fully formed.
“The lungs in babies are not fully developed. So, if a virus gets into a few-a few “In very young babies, babies can experience breathing problems and need support, such as additional oxygen, to help them breathe,” explained Murray, quoted Monday (14/10/2024).
Apart from children, seniors aged 65 years and over are also susceptible to this virus. RSV tends to trigger life-threatening complications in the elderly, such as pneumonia. Apart from that, RSV can also worsen existing diseases, such as asthma, heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Every year, around 60 thousand to 160 thousand elderly people are hospitalized and 6 thousand to 10 thousand elderly people die because of this virus.
What are the symptoms of RSV?
Quoted from health.com, RSV usually causes mild symptoms such as runny nose, coughing, sneezing, fever, decreased appetite and wheezing. A person infected with RSV will show symptoms within four to six days after being infected.
How is RSV transmitted?
RSV can spread in various ways:
– Being exposed to coughs and sneezes from someone who has RSV
– Touching surfaces that are prone to being a place for viruses to stick, such as doorknobs, items in public places, and the face.
– Having direct contact with someone with RSV, such as kissing the face of a child who has the virus.
– Exposed to viral droplets from coughing or sneezing that enter the eyes, nose or mouth.
How is it treated and prevented?
Vaccines and antiviral drugs for RSV disease have not been distributed evenly throughout the world, including Indonesia. However, treatment for RSV can involve reducing or eliminating symptoms.
This treatment is usually done by treating fever and pain, as well as drinking enough water to avoid dehydration. Don’t forget to go to the nearest health facility to consult regarding health treatments that can be done.
Preventing the spread of the RSV virus can also be done by:
– Regularly wash your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds.
– Avoid close direct contact with other people.
– Clean frequently touched surfaces (for example door handles).
– Do not interact with individuals who are at high risk of contracting RSV when they have the flu.
– Limit time with environments that have the potential for transmission. (Jesslyn Samantha Rumiris Lumbantobing)
Understanding RSV: The Unwelcome Guest in Our Lungs
Bisnis.com, JAKARTA – Oh, the joy of respiratory viruses – said no one, ever! Today, let’s chat about a little rascal called Respiratory Syncytial Virus, or RSV for those of us who appreciate abbreviations. But listen closely, my friends, because this sneaky virus doesn’t discriminate. It loves to target babies and our golden-oldie friends who’ve seen a few more summers. What a charmer, right?
Now, let’s dive into the villain of our story. RSV typically throws down its gauntlet at premature babies and toddlers – yes, the ones who somehow manage to spread joy and chaos simultaneously. It seems this virus particularly enjoys its work with children under two, those with chronic lung problems, or babies who can’t even manage a simple swallow without assistance. It’s like RSV has a specific list of “vulnerable” guests it simply won’t miss an invite to!
According to the great minds at Yale Medicine, the stats are staggering. Imagine, around 2.1 million children under five needing outpatient care – that’s not a small number of tiny patients! But hang on, that’s just the tip of the COVID-coughing iceberg! Between 58,000 to 80,000 kiddos find themselves checking into hospitals, and sadly, RSV even claims the lives of 100 to 300 children each year—a heart-wrenching statistic if there ever was one.
Why Does RSV Love Kids?
According to Dr. Thomas Murray, a pediatric infectious disease expert, RSV finds children especially appealing because their immune systems are still fresh off the assembly line. The lungs of these little ones? Not quite ready for the high-stakes game of ‘Let’s Breathe With RSV.’ So when this virus comes knocking, it’s like ringing the doorbell on a home that’s still being built – disaster waiting to happen! Babies can start wheezing and might just need some extra oxygen to keep things afloat.
Don’t Forget the Seniors!
But hang on; RSV doesn’t just love the youngsters. Our beloved seniors, those fabulous folks over 65, are also on this virus’s VIP list. RSV can lead to some nasty complications, like pneumonia, and exacerbate existing conditions such as asthma and heart disease. Don’t be fooled – RSV is far from an ageist party crasher. Every year, this rascally virus leads to 60,000 to 160,000 hospitalizations in the elderly, with 6,000 to 10,000 tragically succumbing to its grip. Talk about a grumpy dinner guest.
Spotting RSV: What’s the Diagnosis?
So, what are the signs that RSV has decided to invade your home? Symptoms can start mild – think runny nose, cough, sneezes, fever, and that ever-so-fun wheezing. Typically, if RSV shows up, you’ll see symptoms within four to six days after the initial visit. A nice little surprise, eh?
Transmission: How Does RSV Move In?
RSV spreads faster than a juicy rumor at a family gathering! Here’s how it gets around:
- It’s attracted to coughs and sneezes of someone who already has RSV – who knew the virus had such social manners?
- Oh, and don’t forget touching surfaces that are basically virus-friendly; door handles, public objects – think of it as RSV’s favorite hangout spots!
- Direct contact is also a classic move: yes, RSV loves those cheeky little kisses siblings give when they’re feeling generous.
- Lastly, those viral droplets flying around? They have no qualms entering anyone’s eyes, nose, or mouth like an unsolicited ‘hug’ from your uncle at Christmas.
How Do We Deal With This Unwanted Guest?
Now, let’s address how to handle the RSV invasion. Unfortunately, vaccines and antiviral meds are still working on their world tour and haven’t quite reached everywhere, including Indonesia. But fret not! For symptomatic relief, focus on reducing fevers, managing pain, and most critically, staying hydrated. Just like at a party—keep the drinks (water) flowing, and don’t hesitate to reach out to a health professional for consultation—they’re the real superheroes in this saga.
Prevention: Keep RSV Out!
Don’t worry; we can kick RSV to the curb before it even enters our domain! Here are some cheeky little tips:
- Be the handwashing champion – lather up for at least 20 seconds like you’re preparing for a hand-drawn awards show.
- Avoid being overly social with others, because less is definitely more when it comes to RSV.
- Frequently touched surfaces? Treat them like potential RSV hotspots; cleaning them could save your sanity!
- When you’re sick, keep your distance from those who could be more at risk. No one wants to be the person to ruin grandma’s bingo night!
- Limit exposure in high-risk environments, because they can be a breeding ground for RSV like it’s the latest pop concert.
Remember, if RSV swings by for a visit, you want to make sure the door is locked and the windows are closed. Keep breathing easy, folks! (Jesslyn Samantha Rumiris Lumbantobing)
