Study pleads with parents to become familiar with symptoms of RSV

A new study has found that parents and caregivers need to become more familiar with the symptoms of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), as the height of flu season continues.

RSV is a common, seasonal virus that typically develops as a cough and cold. It is spread through close physical contact, and it can also cause infections in the lower part of the respiratory system. Around 90% of children contract RSV by the time they turn two.

An online survey was recently funded and conducted by Sanofi, in order to understand the public’s level of awareness and knowledge of RSV. Those who took part included 500 adults who are either currently pregnant or who have children under the age of four in Ireland.

The report concluded that just over half (51%) of Irish parents are aware of RSV and understand the risk it poses to infants and babies. However, almost 1 in 5 (19%) of caregivers admitted that they had never heard of RSV before.

In response to the findings, Dr Máire Finn, who is a GP at Ennis Centric Health, noted: “If symptoms progress to include changes in feeding habits, prolonged periods without wet nappies, rapid breathing, persistent high fever despite medication, or uncharacteristic fussiness, it's best to consult your GP.”

According to the Health Service Executive (HSE), symptoms of RSV are usually similar to the common cold, including a cough, runny nose, fever, sore throat, and a lack of appetite.

However, the HSE recommends that parents should contact their GP if their child starts to develop more unusual symptoms, such as a lack of wet nappies, low energy, a consistent fever, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, or becoming pale.

To help avoid the spread of RSV, you can take simple measures such as washing your child’s hands properly, teaching them to use tissues properly, covering their mouth when they sneeze or cough, and keeping them at home if they become sick.

To find out more information and to read a full list of RSV symptoms, go to Sanofi’s dedicated website here.