According to information released by the State Department of Health (SES), the respiratory syncytial virus, a disease that affects the respiratory system and mainly affects children, has already caused 587 hospitalizations and five deaths in Rio Grande do Sul in 2023. Of the registered hospitalizations, 94 .9% were children under nine years old.
Health authorities and experts warn that with the arrival of winter, cases of syncytial virus infection may increase. It is important to take preventive measures, such as washing your hands regularly and avoiding contact with people who are sick, to reduce your risk of contracting and spreading the disease.
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What is syncytial virus
Syncytial virus, also known as Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), is a virus that causes acute respiratory infections, mostly in children, but can also affect adults. RSV is highly contagious and can spread easily through direct contact with infected respiratory secretions such as saliva, phlegm and mucus, as well as contaminated objects.
Symptoms of RSV infection include fever, cough, nasal congestion, sneezing, wheezing, bluish mouth, and difficulty breathing. In babies and young children, the infection can cause bronchiolitis, which is an inflammation of the small air ducts in the lungs. In severe cases, RSV infection can lead to pneumonia and other respiratory complications.
There is no specific treatment for RSV infection, and most cases resolve on their own with time. However, in severe cases, hospitalization and use of respiratory support may be required. The best way to prevent RSV infection is by taking good personal hygiene measures, such as frequent hand washing and avoiding contact with infected people. In addition, vaccines are available to prevent RSV infection in high-risk infants and children.
