09/06/2023
RSV awareness week. Fact sheet is a great read.
Did you know that almost all children catch RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) before they are three years old? This RSV Awareness Week, let’s break down the facts about the virus.
RSV is a virus that causes respiratory symptoms. It is highly infectious and usually peaks during the autumn and winter months.
Symptoms of RSV often appear around five days after you’ve been exposed to the virus and worsen at day three or four. Symptoms can include:
• runny nose
• cough
• sneezing
• fever
• ear infection (less common)
• wheezing and difficulty breathing
There is no vaccine for RSV. When you recover from the virus you may have some protection for a short time. The virus can stay on objects from four to seven hours. The best way to stop the virus spreading is through good hygiene, including:
• staying at home if you don’t feel well
• covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing
• wearing a mask in crowded places or if you are visiting aged care facilities or hospitals
• avoiding contact with people who are at high risk of severe illness such as infants, older people and those who are immunocompromised until you feel better.
For more, visit: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/factsheets/Pages/respiratory-syncytial-virus.aspx
