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Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

  Just The Facts
What is RSV?
  • It is a respiratory (lung) infection that is caused by a virus.
  • It is NOT a common cold.
  • Infants under 6 months are most likely to have problems
 
What are the signs and symptoms?
  • Runny nose
  • Cough
  • Fever
  • Wheezing
How is it spread?
  • Spreads through the air by coughing and sneezing or by direct contact with articles used by the infected person.
 
What can people do?
  • Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing and do not share food, drink or eating utensils with others. (teach your children this)
  • It is important to wash your hands with soap and water after coughing, sneezing, wiping a nose, eating or before preparing food.
  • Stay at home if you are not feeling well. Keep your child at home if they are not feeling well. This will help stop the spread to others.
  • If your child has a fever greater than 39°C or if symptoms continue to persist, contact your doctor.

 

If an RSV outbreak occurs in an institutional setting, it must be reported to the local Medical Officer of Health under the Health Protection and Promotion Act.
 
 
   If you have any questions or concerns, please call the Health Information Line
at the Brant County Health Unit 519-753-4937 extension 259
 
 
Adapted from CDC   |  Revised 08/2009
Last Updated ( Wednesday, 14 October 2009 )