Central Florida Sees Higher Number Of RSV Cases Than Usual, Says DOH

TAMPA BAY, FL — The Florida Department of Health has issued a notice that it is monitoring an above-average number of cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in Florida communities, especially in Central Florida where 10 cases have been reported.

This common respiratory virus may cause a higher number of pediatric emergency department visits compared to previous years.

Currently, four of Florida’s five regions are in RSV season.

Florida’s RSV season is longer than the rest of the nation and has distinct regional patterns.

In the following week, the percentage of emergency department visits for RSV among children under 5 years old increased and was notably above levels observed at this time in typical years.

In addition to the 10 reported cases in Central Florida during the past week, there were two cases reported in Southeast Florida, four cases reported in North Florida and four cases reported in Northwest Florida.

RSV is an infection of the lungs and respiratory tract with symptoms similar to a common cold. Mild case symptoms can include congested or runny nose, dry cough, low-grade fever, sore throat, sneezing and headache.

In severe cases, RSV symptoms may include fever, cough, wheezing, rapid or difficulty breathing, or bluish skin color.

Follow these steps to protect yourself and others from respiratory illness:

1. Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

2. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

3. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

4. Stay home if you are sick and keep children home if they are sick.

5. Cover your mouth and nose when sneezing and coughing. If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow, not your hands.

See related stories:

• RSV Cases Rise In FL: 5 Things To Know About 'Tripledemic' Threat
• High RSV Levels In Florida: Flu Season Off To Worrisome Start

Infants are the most affected by RSV. Symptoms of severe cases in infants are short, shallow and rapid breathing, struggling to breathe, cough, poor feeding, unusual tiredness or irritability.

Most children and adults recover in one to two weeks, although some might have repeated wheezing. Severe or life-threatening infection requiring a hospital stay may occur in premature infants or in anyone who has chronic heart or lung problems.