STERLING HEIGHTS (WWJ) -- Doctors in metro Detroit are currently dealing with the rise of a virus that’s affecting children — and it’s not coronavirus.
At least one daycare in metro Detroit has reported several cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) among babies at the daycare.
Pediatricians tell WWJ’s Dr. Deanna Lites that RSV -- which usually begins to surface in late fall and early winter -- is hitting earlier this year.
“We have seen this begin within the past month and kind of continue to climb,” said Dr. Whitney Minnock, a pediatric emergency specialist at Beaumont Children’s Hospital.
RSV is especially worrisome for children two years and younger. Symptoms can be similar to COVID-19, and include fever, cough, congestion, and difficulty breathing.
Because of the similarities, doctors recommend testing for both viruses if children appear symptomatic.
“Once kids start to spend more time inside and are closer to each other, we start to see what we call a ‘viral season,’” Dr. Minnock explained. “In addition to RSV, now we have COVID. Influenza we haven’t seen much of yet, but that is something we might see come in the future as well.”
RSV enters the body through the eyes, nose, or mouth, and spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes, causing droplets in the air. The virus can also be spread through direct contact with an infected person.
Unlike COVID-19 and influenza, there is no vaccine for RSV. Researchers say the virus can live on hard surfaces for several hours after an infected person has been in contact with them.
Ways in which parents can prevent their children becoming sick with RSV include limiting contact with others who may have the virus, frequently washing hands, avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth, disinfecting toys and surfaces, and keeping children home if they are sick.
The CDC says most RSV infections go away on their own in a week or two.
There is no specific treatment for RSV infection, though researchers are working to develop vaccines and antivirals (medicines that fight viruses). Learn more about RSV symptoms and care on the CDC's website.
The CDC says parents can relieve their child's symptoms by managing fever and pain with over-the-counter fever and pain reducers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen. Parents should never give aspirin to children.
Other ways to relieve symptoms include drinking enough fluids to prevent dehydration. Parents should talk to healthcare providers before giving children nonprescription cold medicines, as some contain ingredients that are not good for children.
Related
