Context:
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved the first vaccine that protects newborns from Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).
Relevance:
GS II: Health
Dimensions of the Article:
- About Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
- Transmission
- Prevention
About Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
- Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that affects people of all ages.
- It is a significant cause of childhood illness and can lead to more severe infections in certain populations.
Symptoms:
- RSV infection usually starts with symptoms appearing 4 to 6 days after infection.
- Common symptoms include a runny nose, decreased appetite, cough, sneezing, fever, and wheezing.
Severity:
- RSV usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms in healthy individuals.
- However, it can lead to more severe infections in specific groups, including premature infants, babies younger than 6 months old, older adults, and individuals with compromised immune systems or underlying health conditions.
Complications:
- In severe cases, RSV can lead to complications such as pneumonia and bronchiolitis.
- Bronchiolitis involves inflammation of the small airways in the lungs.
- Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs.
Transmission:
- RSV spreads from person to person through the air via coughing and sneezing.
- Direct contact, such as kissing the face of an infected person, can also transmit the virus.
- Touching surfaces with the virus and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes can lead to infection.
- People infected with RSV can be contagious for 3 to 8 days, and infants and those with weakened immune systems may remain contagious for up to 4 weeks.
Risk Groups:
- Premature infants, young babies, older adults, and individuals with certain health conditions are at a higher risk of severe RSV infection.
Prevention:
- Practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, can help prevent the spread of RSV.
- In severe cases, hospitalization may be required, especially for infants and high-risk individuals.
- Awareness and Early Detection:
- Recognizing the symptoms and seeking medical attention early can help in managing RSV infections, especially in high-risk individuals.
-Source: Live Mint
