Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) affects people in a similar way to the common cold but it is easily spread and can be serious in children, vulnerable adults and the elderly
Parents have been urged to watch out for symptoms of a potentially serious virus as cases continue to rise in children. Respiratory syncytial virus affects people in a similar way to the common cold but when it hits young children or vulnerable adults it can be deadly.
While for most people the bug is mild and can be treated at home it still leads to around 450,000 GP appointments, 29,000 hospital admissions and 83 deaths a year in children and adolescents in the UK. It can also be serious for elderly people and other vulnerable adults with 175,000 GP appointments, 14,000 hospitalisations and 8,000 deaths per year in the country.
"Initial symptoms in infants are similar to a cold but can go on to include breathing more quickly or noisily and having difficulties feeding. If your baby has a cold that is getting worse, or it is causing unusual breathing or problems feeding, call NHS 111 or contact your GP practice. It said the virus is common with almost all children being infected at some point by the time they reach two years old. It said: "It is important for parents to note that most children infected with RSV will only experience mild symptoms such as a runny nose, coughing and sneezing, fever and wheezing and they probably won’t occur all at once. Most recover in around one or two weeks, and won’t need to see anybody.
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Global study zeroes in on vaping's respiratory risks among exclusive e-cigarette usersThe VERITAS study, a global cross-sectional survey, aims to isolate the effects of vaping on respiratory health by focusing exclusively on individuals who vape but have never smoked, offering unique insights into the direct consequences of e-cigarette use.
Read more »
Connecticut has first flu and RSV deaths of the seasonConnecticut has the first flu and RSV deaths of the season. Health officials are urging people to get vaccinated.
Read more »
Six remarkable things I discovered while making The Secret Genius of Modern LifeHannah Fry uncovers the secrets behind the miraculous technologies of the modern world.
Read more »
Leeds mum-of-six sleeps in living room as she 'waits for bigger home'The Wisdom Family share two beds between seven of them; there isn't enough space in their house
Read more »
Geordie Shore star 'in show return' after six years following marriage splitGeordie Shore legend Gaz Beadle is reportedly set to make a shocking return to the MTV show, six years after he quit, and just one year after he snubbed the reunion series
Read more »
Six-year-old girl saves mum's life by dialling 999 during asthma attackCali-Maii Ball has been called a 'real hero' after dialling 999 during her mother's potentially fatal asthma attack
Read more »