In addition to the corona virus, another pathogen is raging in Germany: the RS virus is currently common in children and is currently pushing the children’s hospitals to their limits. Find out here why infants in particular are at risk and what signs point to an infection with the RS virus.
The respiratory syncytial virus , abbreviated RSV , is currently spreading very rapidly . This is a worldwide causative agent of acute diseases of the upper and lower respiratory tract. The virus is one of the cold pathogens that occur in autumn and winter and are particularly prevalent in premature babies and small children. According to the Professional Association of Pediatricians (BVKJ), RSV infections started earlier this year and are particularly strong.
RS virus can cause infection in people of all ages. In older children or adults, this manifests itself like a normal cold . However, infection with the RS virus is risky for premature babies and newborns. It can cause severe breathing difficulties that require hospital treatment. In babies under the age of six months, premature babies or children with pre-existing conditions (asthma, congenital heart defects or immunodeficiency), infection can lead to serious illnesses.
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RS virus: Look out for these signs
Since an infection with the RS virus is similar to a cold, it is not always easy to recognize the viral disease as such. According to the Robert Koch Institute, the following symptoms occur:
- sniffles
- Non-productive cough
- Weakness
- difficulty drinking
- In contrast to a common cold, so-called wheezing occurs with an RS infection. These are whistling breath sounds. The baby breathes irregularly or takes long pauses in breathing. The breathing difficulties are reminiscent of whooping cough.
- Possibly increased temperature or fever
- Possibly cool fingers or hands
Why is RSV rampant at the moment?
Due to the corona pandemic and the contact restrictions, there were almost no colds in the past year.
The children’s immune systems were therefore unable to gain any experience in fighting the pathogen. Since this autumn there will be more easing and more contacts taking place, the virus will spread more easily. In addition, two cohorts encounter the virus for the first time. This increases the number of severe cases. Although the cold season has only just started, the children’s wards are already busy. Added to this is the shortage of nursing staff, which is being exacerbated by the pandemic.
Because RSV is spread via droplets, the virus is easily transmissible. Vaccination is only possible for risk groups such as premature babies. Although it does not prevent infection, it does prevent a severe course. However, vaccination is extremely expensive.
How is RS virus infection treated?
There is no specific therapy for an infection with the RS virus. First and foremost, the symptoms such as cough, runny nose or fever are treated. Classic home remedies such as rest, drinking a lot, steam inhalation or calf wraps alleviate the cold symptoms and discomfort. In severe cases or when oxygen is required, young babies in particular are treated and monitored in the hospital.
