Buzz
In recent days, reports of numerous children being admitted to hospitals due to an unfamiliar virus have sparked intense concern among parents on forums and social media.
Uncovering the Reality of the 'Unusual' Virus
According to experts, RSV is a common respiratory virus prevalent in children under 2 years old, particularly infants. Initial symptoms include sneezing, excessive nasal discharge, and mild to high fever. Severe cases may lead to respiratory distress, chest retractions, rapid heartbeat, and pose a threat to life. Some children recover within 3-5 days, while others with weakened immunity may experience worsening symptoms.
These signs make it challenging for parents to distinguish the illness from a common cold. RSV has a high transmission capability, so families neglecting medical visits may contribute to its widespread dissemination in the community.
An illustrative case is Hong Anh (5 years old, Phu Tho province), who underwent a month-long hospitalization with respiratory support at the National Children's Hospital. In mid-August, Anh exhibited a persistent cough, runny nose, and high fever. Initially considered a common cold, the condition worsened after 4 days, leading to difficulty breathing and chest retractions.
Upon admission, doctors diagnosed bronchiolitis, respiratory failure level 2, and RSV positivity. Treatment involved oxygen, antibiotics, and a prolonged hospital stay.
Another case is Kieu Nhi (38 days old, Son La province), admitted with wheezing, rapid heartbeat, lung damage, and oxygen saturation as low as 88%. After examination, doctors identified RSV in tracheal secretions, confirming a positive result.
Associate Professor Le Thi Hong Hanh, Deputy Head of the Respiratory Department at the National Children's Hospital, highlighted a significant increase in RSV-infected children within a month, with 5-10 severe cases concentrated in those under 6 months old.
Currently, there is no specific treatment for RSV.
According to Associate Professor Le Thi Hong Hanh, there is NO SPECIFIC TREATMENT for the illness caused by the RSV virus. When a child contracts the disease, parents should ensure adequate fluid intake, administer fever-reducing medications, and maintain a nutritious diet rich in vitamins. While some children may recover on their own, vigilant monitoring is essential to detect any worsening symptoms promptly, facilitating timely medical intervention.
Professor Hanh also emphasizes: 'This does not mean that families can self-treat at home or buy medication for their children without seeking medical attention. Parents cannot determine whether the child is infected with a common virus or a lower respiratory tract infection, making it crucial to seek appropriate medical advice.
Tips for Preventing and Dealing with RSV Infection
- Parents should minimize taking their children to crowded places and public areas as much as possible.
- Adults, when going out, should practice proper hygiene using soap before interacting with children.
- Avoid letting strangers kiss or hold the baby.
- In daycare settings, if a child shows symptoms of RSV infection, immediate isolation is necessary, and parents should be urged to take the child to the hospital for examination. In case of a confirmed RSV infection, teachers must thoroughly clean the classroom, toys, and furniture to prevent further spread.
- Parents should be attentive: When a child exhibits symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, dry cough, mild fever, vomiting, poor appetite, etc., it's crucial to take the child to the nearest medical facility for examination and strictly avoid self-prescribing medication.
