According to an alert issued by the Federal Ministry of Health, the recent cold has led to an increase in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cases in various regions, especially in the state of Mexico and Mexico City.
RSV is a common respiratory virus that can cause mild cold-like symptoms to severe complications such as bronchiolitis, pneumonia and more serious respiratory infections, especially in infants. The incubation period is 4 to 6 days and people are contagious even before symptoms appear, which can last up to 4 weeks in some cases.
RSV transmission occurs through respiratory droplets or contact with surfaces or objects contaminated with respiratory secretions from an infected person. The main symptoms include runny nose, coughing, sneezing, fever (which does not always occur) and difficulty breathing, especially in babies under 6 months of age.
Diagnosis is by symptoms or rapid antigen testing, PCR, or viral culture, especially in infants or individuals with weakened immune systems. Treatment of mild symptoms is similar to that of a common cold, but severe cases may require special medical care.
So far this year, there have been 425 hospitalizations due to other respiratory viruses, 64% of which were caused by respiratory syncytial virus. The most affected group are children aged 1 to 9 years. Fortunately, there have been no reports of deaths due to this infection.
To prevent transmission, it is recommended to cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing, wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your face without washing your hands, and consider using a mask in closed and crowded environments.
The Department of Health emphasizes the importance of taking these precautions to reduce the risk of infection and RSV transmission in the community.
We will continue to inform.