RSV is on the rise. How to recognize it and treat the symptoms

As people confront the cold and flu season, what’s top of mind for many Californians this year is the unseasonably early activity of respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, which causes a respiratory illness that can be dangerous for babies and older adults. The record number of daily emergency room visits and pediatric hospitalizations caused by the virus prompted the Orange County Health Care Agency to issue a Declaration of Health Emergency on Oct. 31, just two days after strongly encouraging residents to follow preventive measures against RSV. RSV is a common virus that affects both the upper respiratory system, which includes the nose and throat, and the lower respiratory system, which includes the lungs, according to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. Children at particular risk include: Premature infants Infants 6 months and younger Children under 2 with chronic lung disease or congenital heart disease Children with weakened immune systems Children who have neuromuscular disorders, including those who have difficulty swallowing or clearing mucus secretions If you’re concerned about a child’s risk for severe RSV infection, consult the child’s healthcare provider. According to the CDC, healthcare providers usually give this monoclonal antibody to premature infants and young children with certain heart and lung conditions as a series of monthly shots during RSV season.