Respiratory Virus Surges in Under-5s: Doctors Raise Alarm

2023-11-03 10:05:03

Doctors Issue Warning Over Respiratory Virus On The Rise In Under-5s

A common winter virus is spreading among young children, with one in three testing positive, according to the UK's Health Security Agency (UKHSA).

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Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) typically causes cold-like symptoms and most people recover within a week or two. However, it can be serious for certain groups, particularly infants, with around 30,000 of them being hospitalized each year.

In a recent winter health update, the UKHSA reported that the overall positivity for RSV has risen to 8.7%, with children under the age of five being the most affected at 34.1%.

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Some children with RSV can develop complications such as pneumonia and bronchiolitis, making RSV the leading cause of bronchiolitis in infants, accounting for around 60-80% of infections.

Emergency department attendances for acute bronchiolitis have been increasing nationally, along with hospital admission rates.

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Signs of RSV

"Initial symptoms in infants are similar to a cold but can progress to breathing difficulties and feeding problems," said Dr. Conall Watson, a consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA.

• sore throat
• runny nose
• cough or fever
• drowsiness
• wheezing

"If your baby's cold worsens or they have unusual breathing or feeding issues, contact NHS 111 or your GP. If your child is seriously unwell, trust your judgment and call 999 or go to A&E," Dr. Watson added.

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Key signs of respiratory distress that require urgent medical attention include:

• head bobbing
• tracheal tug
• altered level of consciousness
• different breathing pattern
• use of extra muscles to breathe
• skin color changes
• grunting when breathing
• nose flaring

If symptoms remain mild, there is no specific treatment for RSV. Rest and plenty of fluids tend to be the most effective. However, parents should contact their GP or call NHS 111 if:

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• Their child struggles to breathe or shows signs of respiratory distress
• Their child has a decrease in feeding or has had a dry nappy for 12 hours or more
• The child has a persistent high temperature of 37.8°C or above

How to avoid getting sick

To reduce the risk of illness, it is recommended to regularly wash hands, use a tissue for coughs or sneezes, and stay away from others if feeling unwell.

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