| 5 June 2008 |
 |
|
Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection
|
Causative agent
This infection is caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a single stranded, RNA virus. RSV infection is more active in spring and summer months from March to August in Hong Kong.
Clinical features
RSV causes respiratory tract diseases such as infection of the airway, lungs and middle ear. It is the most common cause of chest infection for those under 1 year of age. Patients develop fever and other symptoms such as chills, headache, decreased appetite, body ache or weakness, and occasionally gastrointestinal disturbances in infants.
Mode of transmission
The virus can be transmitted by direct contact with infectious secretions, by droplets spread, or indirectly through contaminated hands, eating utensils or articles freshly soiled by nasal discharge of the infected person.
Incubation period
The incubation period is 1-10 days , usually 5-7 days.
Management
The infection usually subsides in 2 to 5 days. Most patients can be managed with supportive treatment. Severe cases may need oxygen therapy and tube feeding. Antiviral agent may be considered for patients with congenital heart or lung diseases. For bacterial complications such as pneumonia, sinusitis or middle ear infection, antibiotics may be needed.
Prevention
Vaccine is not available at the moment. To prevent the infection, the public are advised to:
- Build up good body immunity by having a proper diet, regular exercise and adequate rest, reducing stress and avoid smoking.
- Maintain good personal and environmental hygiene.
- Cover nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing and dispose of nasal and mouth discharge properly.
- Wash hands after sneezing, coughing, toileting and before eating.
- Disinfect eating and drinking utensils after use can reduce the risk of spread of the disease.
- Infected persons should avoid contact with children or those with low body resistance.
|
|
|
