Symptoms:
RSV is the virus that is the causative agent of the respiratory tract infection. It is a major cause of lower respiratory tract infections.It can however be very fatal, especially in infants and older adults. It is the most common cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in children younger than 1 year of age. It is also a major cause of respiratory illness in older adults.
- Barking cough
- Runny nose
- Nasal congestion
- Fever
- Difficulty in breathing
- Wheezing
- Lethargy
- Irritability
- Bluish colour around fingernails, mouth and lips
- Apnea (stopping breathing)
Tests to diagnose:
Nasal swab test - Antigen detecting test
RT-PCR (Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction)
Treatment:
Based on the severity of the symptoms, the doctor may advice:
- Corticosteroid medicines
- Antibiotics
- Antiviral medicine (ribavirin)