The respiratory syncytial virus is known to cause respiratory tract infections. It belongs to the virus family of Paramyxoviridae which includes viruses responsible for causing measles and mumps. It is one of the main reasons for hospitalizations among babies and children.
What are the indications?
Once an individual is infected by the respiratory syncytial virus, the symptoms start to manifest between 4-5 days.
Among adults, the symptoms are relatively mild and difficult to distinguished from the symptoms of common cold.
It is important to note that it is the usual cause of inflammation of the airways within the lungs as well as pneumonia among children below 1 year old. Generally, it develops among those with a compromised immune system or premature infants. The other indications of respiratory syncytial virus infection among children include fever, restlessness and appetite loss.
The virus typically spreads via direct contact especially in daycare centers, nursing homes and schools.
Management
Based on studies conducted, the treatment that is proven effective for respiratory syncytial virus infection is nebulized hypertonic saline. The supportive care includes increased fluids and oxygen until the virus is eliminated from the body.
Preventive measures
Since the virus is present everywhere, avoidance is not possible. Presently, there is no available vaccine. Nevertheless, there is a prophylactic medication available that is given as injections before the start of the RSV season and lasts until the season ends.