10 Signs and Symptoms of RSV
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a virus that causes respiratory tract infections. It contributes to most hospital visits for infants or young children. It also causes the majority of lower respiratory tract infections in the pediatric population.
Infection peaks during the winter months or rainy season (for tropical regions). Over 4 million children will get an RSV infection each year in the US. It is important to notice that RSV is not restricted to the pediatric population alone, it causes over 100.000 hospitalizations in the elderly each year as well.
Symptom #1: Fever
Fever or pyrexia occurs when there is a higher than normal temperature due to the increase in the body’s set point of temperature. This increase leads to muscle contractions and a feeling of coldness to increase heat production and conservation. It is important to note that a fever can trigger a febrile seizure in young children.
A fever can have various causes such as infection (bacterial, viral such as RSV, parasitic, fungal), common cold, vasculitis, cancer, and deep vein thrombosis. While the treatment of a fever is usually unnecessary, medications such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can be beneficial to help lower the temperature. Tepid sponging, rest, and hydration are also important.
