Ministry of Health advises parents to take care of their children – young children Fear of RSV infection after more than 2,000 cumulative cases
On September 17, Dr. Opas Karnkawinpong Director-General of the Department of Disease Control said that during the rainy season and winter August-November There is a chance of encountering many contagious diseases. one of them is Respiratory Infections Caused by RSV Virus (Respiratory Syncytial Virus: RSV) from surveillance data for influenza and respiratory infections in Thailand. From January 1 to September 2, 65, 1,445 children under the age of 5 had RSV in 131, or 9%, the most common among children under 2. year to 58%, with an increase in the number of patients during the rainy season and winter which is around the same time as the flu season and the situation of RSV infection this year Since the beginning of the year – June 65, 2,341 cases have been found.
Dr. Opas said The disease is transmitted by inhalation of contaminated droplets and secretions through coughing and sneezing. The virus enters the body through the eyes, nose, and mouth. People who are infected show symptoms at the earliest 2 days after infection, at the latest around 8 Most days average 4-6 days and can be contagious 3-8 days after onset of symptoms. For infection in young children, the disease has the potential to spread to the lower respiratory tract such as the trachea, lung tissue, causing bronchitis. bronchiolitis and subsequent pneumonia
“In the early stages, the patient will have mild symptoms similar to the common cold, such as fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat. Shortness of breath due to pneumonia whistling sound of breathing a scratching sound in the throat They eat less, seep worse, and possibly die.” Dr. Opas said
Dr. Opas said that There is currently no cure for viral infections. RSV Direct Most of the treatments are symptomatic. The disease can be found in patients of all age groups. But the risk group that may develop severe symptoms are young children, children whose immune systems are not strong. Premature children, seniors 65 years and older, and people with chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, lung disease, heart disease, or people with immune system problems. etc.
Dr. Opas said Advise parents and educational institutions to closely observe the symptoms of their children and students, especially young children under 5 years of age, by washing their hands with soap frequently, properly before meals and after going to the bathroom. Avoid touching your face, eyes, nose, mouth with your hands. Do not share utensils and personal items with others. maintain personal hygiene Avoid contact with infected people, such as those with the flu or pneumonia. Children should not be taken in crowded places.
As for those who are sick, they should refrain from going outside when they are unwell to reduce the spread of the virus to others. Wear a cloth mask or a hygienic mask. Cover your mouth and nose every time you cough or sneeze. Regularly clean the house, including children’s toys. Eat hygienic food from all 5 food groups, drink plenty of water and get enough rest. If the child is found to be sick Should be separated from normal children to prevent transmission. and take him to the doctor for further diagnosis and treatment For more information, contact the Department of Disease Control hotline, call 1422.