Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is very common—in fact, according to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, RSV affects approximately 64 million people around the world each year. Fortunately, families in Glendale, California, and surrounding communities can rely on Vituity Family Medicine Center for RSV testing and treatment.
What Is RSV?
RSV is a type of respiratory virus that most commonly affects infants and young children. Signs of RSV in babies include fast and shallow breathing, difficulty breathing, coughing, lethargy, irritability, and poor feeding. RSV symptoms in older children and adults more closely resemble those of a cold (for example, a low-grade fever, a headache, sneezing, congestion, a runny nose, a sore throat, and a dry cough).
The goal of RSV treatment is usually to relieve any resulting symptoms. For instance, if a patient is experiencing congestion, a medical provider may recommend using a saline spray to flush out their nasal passages.
How Long Is RSV Contagious?
RSV is known for being highly contagious, so if you or your child are exhibiting RSV symptoms, you probably want to know how long the virus is transmissible. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), individuals with RSV are usually contagious for three to eight days, but some infants and people with weakened immune systems may remain contagious for up to four weeks.
Do You Need RSV Testing or Treatment?
You can get the care you need at Vituity Family Medicine Center’s Glendale, CA, clinic. Call us today at (747) 212-3441 to schedule an appointment for RSV testing and treatment.