RSV Cases Surge Nationwide

(Monroe County, Fla) – The Florida Keys Healthy Start Coalition and Florida Department of Health in Monroe County are working together to ensure families are aware of the recent increase in RSV infections.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a very contagious virus that is the leading cause of hospitalization in babies under age one.  Hospitals across the country have reported a surge in RSV cases over the last three to four weeks.

RSV commonly causes mild, cold-like symptoms but can also lead to more serious respiratory illness in babies, including lung infections such as bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lung) and pneumonia (infection of the lungs).

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), virtually all children get an RSV infection by the time they are 2 years old. RSV may not be severe when it first starts, however, it can become more serious within a few days. Early symptoms of RSV may include runny nose, decrease in appetite, and coughing progressing into wheezing.

Infants who get an RSV infection almost always show symptoms such as:

  • Irritability
  • Decreased activity
  • Decreased appetite
  • Long pauses while breathing

RSV infections can go from mild symptoms to hospitalization in less than a week, so it’s important to watch your baby for worsening symptoms.  If your child is sick and you notice short, shallow or fast breathing that isn’t normal for them, make an appointment with their doctor right away. Your pediatrician will be able to evaluate for this potentially dangerous virus and help explain how to best manage the symptoms your baby is experiencing.

Although this outbreak is affecting children primarily, RSV can also be dangerous to older adults.  Seek help from a local provider if you exhibit RSV symptoms.  For more information, contact your local pediatrician, healthcare provider, or the Florida Keys Healthy Start Coalition’s office (305-293-8424).  You can also read more about RSV on the American Academy of Pediatrics and Center for Disease Control and Prevention websites.

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