Pachuca, Hgo. – Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes lung and respiratory infection. It is common in children but can also infect adults. Symptoms are mild, generally similar to the common cold, and require only self-care measures to relieve discomfort; they usually appear four to six days after exposure to the virus.
In Hidalgo, 14 cases have been registered throughout the year, so María Zorayda Robles Barrera, head of the Hidalgo Health Department (SSH), has directed this to be reported, especially in light of the changing temperatures. is registered with this entity.
In severe cases, the virus can spread to the lower respiratory tract, causing pneumonia or bronchiolitis—inflammation of the small airways that go into the lungs. Signs and symptoms may include:
- fever
- severe cough
- Wheezing, a high-pitched sound usually heard when exhaling
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing – the person may prefer to sit rather than lie down
- Blue skin due to lack of oxygen (cyanosis)
The SSH branch of epidemiology states that RSV enters the body through the eyes, nose or mouth. It spreads easily through the air through infected respiratory droplets. People with RSV infection can become infected if they cough or sneeze nearby; the virus can survive for hours on hard objects such as countertops, crib rails, and toys. If you touch a contaminated object and then touch your mouth, nose or eyes, you are likely to become infected.
According to the address, RSV is not subject to the epidemiological surveillance of SISVER, however, among the negative cases of COVID-19 and influenza, the cases were tested for the virus, confirming 14 cases of respiratory syncytial virus in the state of Hidalgo in 2023.
related data
In adults and older children, RSV often causes cold-like symptoms, which may include:
- stuffy or runny nose
- dry cough
- low fever
- sore throat
- sneeze
- Headache
In most cases, recovery occurs in one to two weeks, but some people may experience recurrent wheezing.
Measures to prevent viral infection:
- handwashing
- Cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough
- Keep items, door surfaces, handles, and kitchen and bathroom countertops clean.Dispose of used tissues immediately
- Do not share glasses with other people.Use your own glass or disposable cup if you are sick
- No smoking. People who are exposed to tobacco smoke are at higher risk of getting RSV and developing more severe symptoms.
- Wash toys regularly
- If symptoms occur, do not self-medicate and seek medical attention