What is RSV infection and how does it make people victims of climate change?
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RSV infection, i.e. respiratory syncytial virus, is spreading rapidly at the moment. With the onset of the cold season, this virus is also increasing rapidly. Its initial symptoms are similar to those of a cold, but this virus can cause serious respiratory illnesses. Especially this virus is more dangerous for young children and the elderly. Let us know how this virus spreads, what damage it causes to the body and it is important to also know its symptoms.
The RSV virus spreads in the air through the cough or sneeze of an infected person and can infect other people by coming into contact with airborne particles. Additionally, if a person touches a surface contaminated with the virus, such as a doorknob, toy, or table, with their hand, and then applies the same hand to their eyes, nose, or mouth without washing, the risk infection increases. Due to this virus, the problem of bronchiolitis, that is, inflammation of the airways, and the problem of pneumonia, that is, inflammation of the lungs, may occur. Apart from this, there may be lack of oxygen in the body, difficulty in breathing, dehydration and ear infection. Special symptoms of this virus include runny nose, cough, sneezing, fever, sore throat, and mild headache.
Who is most at risk?
Dr LH Ghotekar, Professor, Department of Medicine, RML Hospital, says that this virus can appear severely in children, due to which they have difficulty breathing, loss of appetite and may even become irritable. Young children who are born prematurely and are less than two years old do not have a fully developed immune system. Additionally, the immune system of older people weakens with age. In such a situation, they are at higher risk of contracting this virus. For people suffering from conditions such as asthma and heart disease, this virus can take a more severe form.
how to protect
don’t touch the face
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth repeatedly, as this can allow the virus to enter the body.
wash your hands
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after coming from outside or coming into contact with an infected person.
boost immunity
To strengthen the immune system, consume foods that contain vitamin C. Apart from this, eat fresh fruits and green leafy vegetables.
wear a mask
Wear a mask during infection. Apart from this, avoid going to crowded places.
