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Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) FAQs | NCIRS
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common infection that can impact individuals of all age groups, with infants, young children, and older adults being particularly at risk.
Find more details on the website of the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS).
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
RSV is a virus that infects the lungs and airways, leading to various symptoms, diagnosis, management, and prevention methods.
Explore further information on the Pregnancy, Birth & Baby website.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) – Better Health Channel
Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is a viral infection that can cause respiratory issues affecting the airways and lungs.
Read more on the Better Health Channel website.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) | Pathology Tests Explained
Testing for RSV is crucial in detecting this virus, which is a common cause of lower respiratory tract infections in infants globally.
Learn more on the Pathology Tests Explained website.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) | SA Health
RSV is a major cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in infants under one year of age.
Visit the SA Health website for additional insights.
RSV – Immunisation Coalition
Discover more about RSV symptoms, transmission, complications, prevention, and treatment options.
Find detailed information on the Immunisation Coalition website.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection | Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing
Learn how cases of RSV infection are defined and monitored, and where to access further information about the disease.
Check out the Australian Government Department of Heatlh, Disability, and Ageing website for more details.
Bronchiolitis fact sheet | NHMRC
RSV typically leads to bronchiolitis, starting with symptoms similar to a common cold, such as a runny nose, cough, and fever.
Refer to the NHMRC – National Health and Medical Research Council website for comprehensive information.
Respiratory syncytial virus | Children’s Health Queensland
Learn about the symptoms and treatment options for respiratory syncytial virus.
Find more details on the Queensland Health website.
Human metapneumovirus fact sheet | NHMRC
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that can cause symptoms resembling a common cold or RSV infection, potentially resulting in complications like bronchiolitis or pneumonia in young children.
Read further on the NHMRC – National Health and Medical Research Council website.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) | Pathology Tests Explained
RSV testing plays a critical role in identifying respiratory syncytial virus, the primary cause of lower respiratory tract infections in infants globally.
Explore more on the Pathology Tests Explained website.
RSV Guide – Immunisation Coalition
Learn about the causes, transmission, treatment, prevention, pharmaceutical interventions, and impact of RSV on young children and adults.
Visit the Immunisation Coalition website for additional resources.
Bronchiolitis fact sheet | NHMRC
RSV is often responsible for bronchiolitis, with symptoms initially resembling a common cold, including a runny nose, cough, and fever.
Refer to the NHMRC – National Health and Medical Research Council website for more information.
RSV: an update on prevention and management – Australian Prescriber
The landscape of RSV prevention has evolved with the introduction of RSV vaccines and a long-acting RSV monoclonal antibody to prevent severe infections.
Explore further on the Australian Prescriber website.
Human metapneumovirus fact sheet | NHMRC
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) can lead to symptoms similar to a common cold or RSV infection, potentially causing bronchiolitis or pneumonia in young children.
Find out more on the NHMRC – National Health and Medical Research Council website.
Bronchiolitis: Recognise and Assess | Ausmed
Bronchiolitis is a common reason for hospital admission in infants under six months, with a significant number of children admitted annually in Australia due to this condition.
Read further on the Ausmed Education website.
Respiratory viruses fact sheet – Fact sheets
Respiratory viruses can cause illnesses affecting the nose, throat, and breathing passages, resulting in mild cold or flu-like symptoms.
Get detailed insights on the NSW Health website.
An Overview of Common Respiratory Tract Infections | Ausmed
This article aims to assist in recognizing symptoms and presentations of common respiratory illnesses to provide effective care.
Read more on the Ausmed Education website.
Influenza (flu) tests | Pathology Tests Explained
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a seasonal viral infection that emerges in autumn and diminishes by spring.
Explore further on the Pathology Tests Explained website.
Vaccination During Pregnancy Guide – Immunisation Coalition
During pregnancy, individuals are vulnerable and should consider getting vaccinated for influenza, whooping cough, COVID-19, and RSV to safeguard themselves and their baby.
Find more information on the Immunisation Coalition website.
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RSV is a common virus leading to respiratory issues, with some experts suggesting it may also cause skin rashes in children.
- Authored by: Tenzin Chodon
- Last updated: Jun 29, 2024 17:40 IST
Respiratory infections are prevalent among children, with an average of six viral respiratory tract infections occurring each year. These infections can affect the upper and lower respiratory tracts.
Upper respiratory infections primarily impact the nose and throat, often associated with common colds and flus. Lower respiratory infections affect the windpipe, airways, and lungs, more common in children, including conditions like croup, bronchiolitis, and pneumonia.
RSV is a common lower respiratory infection resulting in hospitalization of infants and children globally. This article covers the condition, its symptoms, and the possibility of rashes.
RSV, or Respiratory Syncytial Virus, is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It is most common during the fall and winter months.
Common symptoms of RSV include coughing, sneezing, fever, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, it can lead to bronchiolitis or pneumonia, especially in young children and older adults.
Prevention measures include washing hands regularly, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and keeping commonly touched surfaces clean. There is no specific treatment for RSV, but supportive care such as fluids and rest can help manage symptoms.
Symptoms Of RSV
Common symptoms of RSV include a runny nose, fever, cough, and difficulty breathing.
- Respiratory Tract Infections
- Respiratory System
- Bronchiolitis
- Difficulty eating, drinking, or swallowing
- Wheezing and nasal congestion
- Chest pain
- Abdominal pain while breathing, rapid breathing, or shortness of breath
- Bluish discoloration around the lips and fingertips
In severe cases, RSV can also lead to pneumonia, an infection causing inflammation in the air sacs of the lungs.
Is Rash A Sign Of RSV?
RSV primarily causes respiratory symptoms, although in rare instances, it may trigger skin issues like rashes.
Dr. Sonawane explains that a viral exanthem refers to a widespread skin rash caused by a virus, with children more prone to RSV rashes than adults.
He describes these rashes as small and bothersome, characterized by bumps, patches, or blotches resembling a viral rash.
According to the doctor, RSV rashes typically last around five days and are predominantly concentrated on the trunk, with fewer eruptions on the arms and legs.
Treatment Options
When managing RSV in children, focus on reducing fever and pain with over-the-counter medications, ensuring adequate hydration, and seeking medical advice if symptoms worsen.
According to Dr. Sonawne, using an IV line can deliver fluids and electrolytes if needed. Moreover, extra oxygen can be given via an oxygen tent, nasal prongs, or a mask.
He also mentions the option of inserting a small tube into the lungs to remove excess mucus, as well as using bronchodilator medications to clear the airways.
If the condition is severe, a child may need a ventilator to help with breathing, along with antiviral medications, the doctor concludes.