The Romanian Pulmonology Society warns the population about the risks associated with the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), an “extremely” contagious viral infection with a “major impact” on respiratory health, especially among infants, the elderly and people with comorbidities.
Respiratory syncytial virus aggravates existing diseases, and complications can lead to death. Archive
Specialists claim that the Respiratory Syncytial Virus can exacerbate chronic conditions and the infection can lead to acute myocardial infarction, stroke, asthma exacerbations, and long-term decline in respiratory function.
“This is one of the viruses that affect the lower respiratory system, representing the main cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia among children under two years of age, but also affecting vulnerable adults, such as the elderly or those with comorbidities. The burden of severe disease from RSV is comparable to influenza. Currently, we are in the middle of the RSV infection season, with a maximum incidence in the autumn and winter months”, it is stated in a press release sent by the Romanian Society of Pneumology.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), worldwide, this virus is responsible for over 33 million lower respiratory tract infections, of which approximately 3.2 million cases require hospitalization, also causing over 100,000 deaths annually, most among young children.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus, symptoms that send you to the hospital
In Romania, the number of hospitalizations due to seasonal respiratory infections has increased annually, RSV being one of the major causes of respiratory morbidity. Specialists said that RSV severely affects children under the age of two, as well as people over the age of 65, or those with respiratory conditions or compromised immunity.
“Symptoms usually start with a common cold (fever, stuffy nose, mild cough), but in severe cases it can lead to breathing difficulties, decreased blood oxygen and respiratory failure, requiring emergency hospitalization. Studies show that for some children, the first episode of RSV infection can lead to an increased risk of long-term asthma.” say the specialists. “Since no specific treatments are currently available, there is a need for new interventions that can prevent RSV hospitalizations and illness in all infants starting at birth, when they are most vulnerable to severe disease and in the elderly and those with comorbidities”, doctors say.
Respiratory syncytial virus, preventive measures
The Romanian Pneumology Society recommends preventive measures, especially in the cold season, such as rigorous hand hygiene, avoiding contact with sick people and avoiding crowded spaces. Also, for vulnerable categories, anti-RSV vaccination represents an important protective measure, preventing severe complications and reducing the burden on the medical system.
“Prevention is the key to protect vulnerable groups and reduce the impact of this seasonal virus on the health system. Choosing to vaccinate ourselves and implement appropriate hygiene measures can make the difference in preventing severe cases of illness, hospitalizations and even deaths.” declares Roxana Nemeş, president of the Romanian Society of Pneumology.
