Got any Covid-19 like symptoms? It could be Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
In March, the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) issued a warning that RSV season was coming.
According to their website, Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the most common cause of bronchiolitis and lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) among young children and may cause severe illness in young infants.
“It is highly contagious with transmission mainly by respiratory droplets and re-infections can occur. The RSV season usually precedes the influenza season.”
The NICD also alerted clinicians and paediatric hospitals or intensive care units are reminded to anticipate an increase in paediatric admissions during the RSV season.
“Healthcare providers are encouraged to prepare and allocate adequate resources to respond to the surge in RSV cases.”
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Prevention measures include isolation of children with influenza-like symptoms (sick children should not go to crèches or schools for a few days), and teaching children (and adults looking after infants) to practice sneeze and cough hygiene.
Now the national department of health says they have an alert from the NICD
“[The NICD] has notified the department that it is currently the peak season of RSV which can be confused by some people, with COVID-19 or SARS-CoV-2 due to common symptoms. The RSV virus causes illness mainly in young children but also contributes to respiratory illness in older individuals. Influenza virus season usually follows RSV, and we are starting to see an increase in cases.
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“While most diseases caused by influenza, RSV and SARS-CoV-2 viruses are mild, these viruses may cause severe illness and even death amongst the citizens around the country, particularly in individuals with conditions placing them at high risk of severe disease.”
The department says infected with influenza are usually contagious for 3 to 8 days.
“Preventative measures such as wearing of masks and social distancing are recommended for especially for those who are ill.
“Some of the common symptoms of this respiratory virus, influenza, include, but are not limited to runny nose, decrease in appetite, coughing, sneezing, fever, and wheezing. Parents and caregivers are urged to take their children who experience difficulties with breathing, not drinking enough fluids and experience deteriorating symptoms to the nearest health facility or healthcare providers for medical attention without delay.”
