Respiratory syncytial virus peaking in South Africa - LNN - Network ...

The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is at peak circulation in the country and influenza virus infections are starting to increase.

This is according to a statement issued by the Department of Health, which encourages the public to take extra precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones against respiratory infections that are expected to increase in winter.

The Department of Health’s spokesperson, Foster Mohale, said Covid-19 is also spreading at low levels.

“The National Institute for Communicable Diseases’ surveillance system monitors the circulation of respiratory viruses throughout the country.

“It has notified the department that it is currently the peak season of RSV which can be confused by some people [as being] Covid-19 or SARS-CoV-2, due to common symptoms.”

While the RSV virus mainly causes illness in young children, it also contributes to respiratory illness in older people.

“Influenza virus season usually follows RSV, and we are starting to see an increase in cases.”

While most diseases caused by influenza, RSV and SARS-CoV-2 viruses are mild, these viruses may cause severe illness and even death, particularly in individuals with conditions placing them at high risk of severe disease.

The influenza season is expected to start in the next few weeks, and people especially those at high risk of severe influenza – adults aged 65 years and older; people with underlying illnesses, such as heart and lung disease; people living with HIV and tuberculosis; and pregnant women should get the influenza vaccine to prevent severe health complications should they contract the virus.

The influenza vaccine is available at public clinics free of charge – on a first-come-first-served basis – to people in risk groups. It can also be bought at pharmacies.

People infected with influenza are usually contagious for three to eight days. Preventative measures, such as wearing masks and social distancing, are recommended for those who are ill.

The influenza virus spreads mainly from one person to another by respiratory droplets.

As co-infections with other respiratory viruses can occur, it’s important for people to cover their nose and mouth when they cough or sneeze, stay at home when sick, and not touch their face with unwashed hands. They should also avoid close contact with others when sick (especially those at risk of severe disease), such as kissing, shaking hands and sharing cups and eating utensils.

Some of the common symptoms of influenza include a runny nose, decrease in appetite, coughing, sneezing, fever and wheezing.

Parents and caregivers are urged to take children who experience breathing difficulties or are not drinking enough fluids and experiencing deteriorating symptoms to their closest health facility for medical attention.