In winter in Chile, Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cases increase in children and older adultsIt is one of the worst in recent years, which is why experts warn that the phenomenon could be replicated in Mexico during the coldest months of the year.
Regarding this situation, Sarbelio Moreno Espinoza, director of teaching and academic development at the “Federico Gomez” Children’s Hospital in Mexico, warned, What happens in the Southern Hemisphere is to us a thermometer of what will happen in the Northern Hemisphere.
Furthermore, the expert added, Syncytial virus is dangerous because it affects two of the most vulnerable groups in the population: The elderly and newborns, mainly premature infants and people who have had lung or heart problems since birth.
What is syncytial virus and what are its symptoms?
Syncytial viruses can affect the lungs and respiratory system, causing cold-like symptoms. The disease is so common that most children are infected before they are two years old.Although in older adults and healthy children Symptoms are mild, similar to a common cold, and may lead to serious infection in some people.
Therefore, in adults or older children, common symptoms are:
- Congestion or runny nose
- dry cough
- low fever
- sore throat
- Headache
In more severe infections, the following also occurs:
- fever
- severe cough
- respite
- Shortness of breath
- Skin tone bluish
Especially in babies, the muscles and skin of the chest pull inward with each breath. Additionally, newborns may appear unusually tired and irritable.
How to prevent this disease?
To prevent syncytial virus, there are Two approved vaccines, its efficiency is 60%. One is suitable for the elderly and the other is suitable for pregnant women. For her part, Moreno Espinoza explained:
“The disadvantage is that children can become sick as soon as they are born, especially those born in the fall or winter, so the strategy is to vaccinate the mother during her pregnancy so that the child has antibodies at birth.”
Domestic Monoclonal antibodies have been used to fight viruses for 25 yearsthis method does not induce antibody formation like a vaccine, but is a kind of passive immunity.
Until a few months ago, it was administered monthly to at-risk babies and is now available in doses Infants under eight months old should receive one, regardless of whether the baby has risk factors.
In addition, experts also invite the public to Use a mask Avoid being in closed or crowded spaces and keeping sick children from coming into contact with other minors or the elderly to avoid causing more infections.