RSV or Respiratory Synctial Virus affects lungs and respiratory airways.
This illness that can last up to 2 weeks or longer, in more severe cases.
It’s a common virus easily spread through virus droplets and can show symptoms of a common cold.
Teri Reeves, Family Nurse Practitioner says “If you have a cold, know that it just might be a mild cold for you it might be a mild common cold but that could be something a lot more severe for infants or for small children.”
Anyone can contract RSV and symptoms can range from mild to severe.
The virus is more severe for children under the age of two and for adults 65 and older.
There is currently no treatment, however researchers are working on a vaccine.
Tony Malik, Aspirus Keweenaw Hospital, “If you feel as if you are not improving at home or your child’s not improving, at home, it would be good idea to be seen by a physician, to make sure that you know that there is nothing else underlying that needs to be treated.”
Transmission can occur from droplets living on hard surfaces as it can last for hours.
To protect yourself, wash your hands regularly, use hand sanitizer and avoid close contact with others.
Teri Reeves Family Nurse Practitioner, “You can prevent spreading it really well by just covering your cough, washing your hands, making you sure you keep, you know your, um after you blow your nose, keeping that to yourself. Wearing masks does help prevent it as well, by keeping your germs to yourself.”
Doctors say if you are sick, stay home, and if your symptoms persist go see your doctor.
Michelle Duder WZMQ 19 Marquette
