RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, is on pediatricians’ minds a lot during the cold months. While it causes a terrible cold in most individuals, it is the major cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in children under the age of one year.
What are the RSV trends?
Cases of RSV began to fall in April of 2020. The COVID-19 prevention measures, such as social isolation, mask use, and frequent hand and surface washing, protect against a wide range of viruses. Not only did we see fewer RSV cases, but we also saw fewer cases of flu and other common viruses.
However, cases of RSV began to rise in March 2021. It’s difficult to say why, but it’s likely that as people began to be vaccinated against COVID-19, we began to remove our masks and congregate around other people again. But that isn’t the only reason; Australia and South Africa also saw higher than expected rates of RSV during their summer months. Fortunately, RSV cases in those countries did not spike as high as they usually do in the fall and winter. However, until we know what will happen, parents should keep RSV in mind — and be on the lookout for the problems it can cause.
What exactly are the signs of respiratory distress?
In practice, this means that parents of young children, particularly those born prematurely or with lung or heart problems, should keep an eye on their children if they develop cold symptoms. They should be especially alert for any signs of difficulty breathing, such as
- pallor or a blue tinge to the skin
- unusual sleepiness or weakness
- frequent cough
- sucking in around the ribs with breathing
- audible wheezing
- flaring of the nostrils
- trouble talking, or a weak cry
If any of these things happen, seek medical attention right away. If none of these things are happening, but the child has a bad cough or a high fever, it’s time to call the doctor. Parents should do so regardless because COVID-19 can cause a cough or fever.
As much as we all want to return to normalcy, the rise in RSV cases may be a reason for families with young children to keep their masks on in public rather than take them off. Consult your doctor about RSV — and COVID-19 — cases in your area so that you can make the best decision for you and your family.
