2024-04-21 23:30:00
Health Breakdown｜Multiple attacks of COPD and RSV asthma People at high risk get RSV vaccination to avoid respiratory tract
In Hong Kong, cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection occur all year round. Older adults and people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma are at higher risk of severe illness and hospitalization once infected. In the past, people might only prevent this virus by maintaining personal and environmental hygiene. Today, new vaccines are available that can reduce the risk of lower respiratory tract illness following infection. Doctors recommend that people at high risk get vaccinated as soon as possible. avoid aggravating the existing situation.
Mamie Zhang (pseudonym), who has suffered from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease for many years, is in stable condition and rarely suffers from acute attacks. Unexpectedly, she felt short of breath and even wheezed earlier this year. She took her to the hospital for treatment. He was later diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. A positive pressure ventilator was used to help him breathe, but the situation never improved. The attending physician assessed his clinical symptoms and decided to perform a viral test. It was found that she was initially infected with the RSV virus, which explains why her condition was more serious than that of ordinary patients. stay in the hospital for three weeks before he can recover and be discharged.
Acute infection or attack
RSV is a single-stranded RNA virus that can cause respiratory illnesses. In the past, we thought that only children were at high risk of RSV infection. In fact, the elderly, people with COPD and asthma should be especially careful. Respiratory system specialist Dr Tan Zijun pointed out that the initial symptoms of RSV infection may be similar to those of a cold, such as nasal congestion and runny nose. Patients may not take it seriously, but it will soon spread to the upper and middle parts. respiratory tract, causing tracheal narrowing and acute illness: “This group of patients has a higher admission rate and longer hospitalization time, and their treatment will become relatively complicated.
In fact, in older people and those with ongoing health problems, RSV can cause pneumonia or bronchitis, inflammation of the small airways in the lungs. This is another common complication among older adults infected with RSV. Sometimes RSV can make heart failure worse.
Vaccines reduce the risk of serious illness
However, there is currently no specific medication for RSV. Once people with COPD or asthma are unfortunately infected with the virus, how should they react? Dr. Tam says the first thing to do is to see a doctor, control fever and pain with medication, and add enough fluids to prevent dehydration. Second, if the patient is prescribed rescue packs containing steroids and antibiotics, they can be used if necessary. If symptoms of acute illness appear, medications should be taken as usual to avoid worsening of the original condition.
To reduce the impact of RSV on oneself, Dr Tam said the most effective way is to get vaccinated, especially for people aged over 60 and those suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and ‘asthma. Some studies have highlighted that RSV vaccination can reduce the risk of lower respiratory tract diseases following RSV infection by 94.6% in people with at least one comorbidity and by 82.6% in people over 60 years old; %. He added that even if you become infected with RSV following vaccination, you can avoid the risk of acute attacks, severe illness and hospitalization.
Dr Tan suggested that the above-mentioned high-risk individuals might consult their GP and arrange vaccinations based on their health and financial situation in order to cope with the peak period of the COVID-19 epidemic. RSV virus.
Dr Tan Zijun, respiratory system specialist
1713788179
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