Cases of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Have Increased Dramatically, According to the Washoe County Health District

NEVADA – The number of confirmed cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in Washoe County has increased dramatically.

The Western Colorado Health Department (WCHD) reported 343 cases of respiratory viruses in the county as of last week, an increase of 157 from the previous week.

While most people recover from RSV within a week or two on their own, infants younger than 6 months old (particularly preterm infants) and the elderly are at increased risk for hospitalization (especially those with chronic diseases).

Bronchiolitis (inflammation of the airways of the lungs) and pneumonia are more serious consequences of RSV.

According to Washoe County’s District Health Officer Kevin Dick, “we’re on pace to have one of the worst RSV seasons ever reported in Washoe County.” Babies, toddlers, and preschoolers, as well as our nation’s elderly, and those with preexisting health concerns, are at particularly high risk of contracting RSV. No vaccination exists for respiratory syncytial virus. Therefore we need to take special measures to safeguard our most vulnerable citizens.

The number of patients admitted to hospitals in Nevada with respiratory syncytial virus has risen, according to the Nevada Hospital Association. Due to RSV, flu, COVID-19, and other respiratory viruses, pediatric hospital bed capacity and pediatric intensive care units (PICU) in Washoe County are at or above capacity.

Nose running, loss of appetite, coughing, sneezing, fever, and wheezing are only few of the symptoms.

According to the CDC, most children will have RSV by the time they are 2 years old, but the only symptoms may be irritability, decreased activity, and breathing difficulties in very young infants. If you or your kid are having trouble breathing, are not drinking enough water, or if your symptoms worsen, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Reducing your exposure to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is as simple as avoiding people who are ill, washing your hands frequently, not touching your face after touching dirty hands, staying home from school or work if you are sick, and reducing your exposure to young children at daycare centers.

Credits: Fox Reno