RSV

What is RSV?

Respiratory Syncytial Virus is a virus that affects young children and the elderly.  This virus affects the small airways of the lungs and can lead to bronchiolitis and pneumonia.

Symptoms include runny nose, congestion, low grade fever, sore throat, sneezing, and headache.  In severe cases there is wheezing, rapid breathing, lack of oxygen leading to bluish color skin especially around the mouth, fingers and toes.

RSV causes complications especially in children less than age 2.  It can cause middle ear infection, cause asthma attacks, and lower the immune system.

The medication palivizumab (Synagis), is an injection that is given to high-risk kids. High-risk children are those with prematurity, chronic lung disease, certain heart defects, and weakened immune systems.

Testing is important to isolate carriers of the virus and to take proper precautions.  Since COVID-19 and RSV act very similarly most people will need testing for both if clinically indicated.  

The MUST Clinic is committeed to keeping your healthy because we believe "Your Healthcare is a MUST" so call or make an appointment online for COVID testing. Our covid testing will start on Mondays in September, 2021.

Author:  Zoe Stallings, MD

Author

Zoe Stallings, MD Dr. Stallings is the owner/operator of the MUST Clinic, PLLC. She is constantly studying and loves to write. She enjoys social media as a means of communication with her patients. She has also been featured on podcasts and local news segments. Her hobbies include reading, writing and cooking.