RSV cases are currently on the rise in Minnesota and 43 other states in America. In addition to RSV, Doctors have also seen a simultaneous rise in COVID-19 and Flu cases. The prevalence of all three viruses at the same time has become known as the “tripledemic.”
Since RSV is lesser known than COVID and the Flu, LX Co-founder and Physician Associate, Aundria Riggen sat down to answer the most common questions about RSV including prevention, symptoms, and treatment.
What is RSV?
RSV is short for Respiratory syncytial (sin-SISH-Uhl) virus. Symptoms from RSV usually include:
- congestion
- fever
- headache
- cough
In severe or untreated cases, RSV can progress into wheezing or bronchitis.
Why can RSV be so dangerous for small children?
RSV is dangerous for those under two, especially premature or immune-compromised infants because it causes inflammation in the lungs. Younger infants and children have a lower tolerance for this type of inflammation and their airway is smaller which can cause more severe symptoms. Also, RSV tends to cause a fair amount of drainage and younger children and infants have a harder time clearing it from their chests and throat.
Why is RSV on the rise?
It’s not uncommon for RSV to spike this time of year. Mask and gathering restrictions have lessened therefore all viruses will be on the rise. We are also getting an increase in influenza. We haven’t seen much of either of these for 2 years so this Winter could be worse than in the years prior.
If you have any questions or would like to speak with our team about how we can help, you may contact us at 651-565-9633 or visit our contact us page to submit call back form.
