USA Health urges families to take measures to avoid RSV and other respiratory illnesses

By Casandra Andrews
candrews@health.southalabama.edu

The number of children with severe cases of RSV has risen sharply in the Mobile area, with dozens of pediatric patients hospitalized at USA Health Children's & Women’s Hospital.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common respiratory illness that typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Unfortunately, it can be dangerous for babies, toddlers, and older adults.

“We are urging parents and caregivers to make sure their infants are immunized against RSV,” said Benjamin Estrada, M.D., a professor of pediatrics at the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine at the University of South Alabama who also leads the infectious diseases division at USA Health Pediatrics.

Older adults should also get vaccinated, Estrada said, noting that the RSV vaccine has been approved for all adults aged 75 and older, and those age 60-74 who are at severe risk for severe RSV.

Besides making sure young children are immunized and older adults are vaccinated, everyone needs to be diligent about ensuring children wash their hands, cover their coughs, and stay away from other sick children as much as possible, Estrada said.

The symptoms of RSV often present as a bad cold and may last up to two weeks.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), RSV may lead to more serious health problems in high-risk children, including more severe infections, such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia. High-risk children include the very young and those with other significant medical problems, including asthma and immune disorders.

RSV prevention strategies for expectant mothers, infants, and children:

• Infants under 8 months: One dose of the RSV antibody (nirsevimab) within one week of birth for infants born during or entering their first RSV season. For infants born outside of RSV season, the dose should be given shortly before the start of their first RSV season.
• Infants and children 8–19 months: One dose of nirsevimab for children at increased risk of severe RSV disease, such as those with chronic lung disease, severely immunocompromised or severe cystic fibrosis. This dose should be given shortly before the child's second RSV season.
• Children 24 months and younger with certain health conditions: One dose of Palivizumab once a month during RSV season.
• Expectant mothers should receive the RSV vaccine approved for adults during prenatal care.

How you can help limit the spread of RSV

• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your shirt sleeve, not your hands.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with others, such as kissing, shaking hands, and sharing cups and utensils.
• Clean frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs and mobile devices.