RSV on the Rise in Connecticut: What Parents Need to Know

As the holidays approach, COVID-19 and the flu aren’t the only viruses parents need to be on the lookout for – respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) has hit more than 30 states, including Connecticut.

“We are seeing an increase in sick children and adults with various respiratory problems coming into the ED,” said William Horgan, MD, Backus Hospital Emergency Department physician.

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What is RSV?

The virus affects the upper respiratory system with a runny or stuffy nose, cough or sore throat. When it moves into the bronchi or the lungs, it can cause pneumonia or bronchitis. RSV will send 58,000 children under the age of five to the hospital every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“The virus is transmitted through the air, similar to how COVID or the flu is spread. This is why it’s not easy to know if a child has RSV, COVID or flu based on symptoms alone,” Dr. Horgan said.

Read more: https://healthnewshub.org/rsv-adds-to-winter-virus-worries/