Area doctors warn parents of early RSV surge, say it could be fatal

TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – With RSV peaking earlier in the year than normal in states as close as Texas, doctors at Topeka ER & Hospital have warned Shawnee Co.’s parents of the dangers.

Doctors at Topeka ER & Hospital say they are urging parents at Shawnee Co. to monitor their infants and young children for signs and symptoms of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) as cases have increased in several states.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the increase in cases was seen much earlier than the usual increase seen in late fall and winter, and then early spring.

Dr Chad Gustin, emergency physician at Topeka ER & Hospital, said infants and young children are particularly vulnerable to RSV. He also said that the elderly, especially those who are immunocompromised or have heart or lung disease, are also at risk.

“In older children and adults, RSV has symptoms similar to a mild cold, including a runny or stuffy nose, fever, sore throat and sneezing,” says Gustin. “But infants with RSV may present with a lack of appetite, excessive fatigue or lethargy, shallow or rapid breathing, and a severe cough.”

Dr Gustin said RSV could progress to pneumonia and bronchiolitis, which can be life threatening. Similar severe symptoms can be seen in older people with RSV, including severe cough, wheezing or rapid breathing and high fever. Although the recent surge was in Texas, he said RSV could easily spread north through Oklahoma and Kansas.

“As we have seen with COVID, viruses can spread quickly from one area to another even when we take precautions such as wearing a mask and social distancing,” says Gustin.

The CDC said RSV can be transmitted through the air and can survive on hard surfaces like counters, doorknobs and hands for several hours.

“Some of the easiest ways to stop the spread of RSV are to wash your hands regularly, cover your cough and sneeze, and avoid close contact with anyone who is sick or has symptoms of a cold,” said Gustin.

Additionally, Dr Gustin advised parents to regularly clean children’s toys, wipe down counters and other surfaces children are likely to touch, and limit exposure of infants and young children to those who may be. sick.

For more information on RSV, click HERE.

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