All articles tagged with #respiratory virus
A widespread 'mystery virus' causing cold-like symptoms over Christmas has been identified as adenovirus, a common respiratory virus that can cause more severe symptoms and lasts longer than typical colds, especially affecting vulnerable groups, with no current vaccine available.
If you are sick with COVID-19 or another respiratory virus, it's important to stay home, get tested, and take precautions to prevent spreading the virus to others. Follow CDC guidance for staying home and away from others, and consider additional precautions to protect those at high risk of severe illness. If eligible, get tested and start treatment early, and utilize available support services if needed. After being exposed to a respiratory virus, use prevention strategies and consider testing if symptoms develop. Local health jurisdiction policies should also be followed, and support is available for those needing to isolate or quarantine.
Henderson Animal Shelter in Las Vegas has temporarily halted dog adoptions and intake of relinquished pets after a confirmed case of Canine Pneumovirus, a contagious respiratory virus with no vaccine. The shelter is isolating exposed dogs and continuing cat and other animal adoptions while warning pet owners to watch for symptoms and consult veterinarians if their dogs appear sick.
San Bernardino County health officials have confirmed the first RSV-related death of a child under 5 years old, who was severely immunocompromised, in the county. RSV, a common respiratory virus, can be severe or fatal for infants and older adults. Health officials emphasize the importance of preventative measures such as frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, practicing respiratory hygiene, sanitizing surfaces, getting vaccinated, and staying home if feeling sick. The CDC provides information on symptoms, contagious periods, and preventive tips, while urging heightened awareness and protective measures for vulnerable populations.
New Yorkers are experiencing a mysterious, lingering cough that differs from known respiratory viruses like the flu, COVID-19, or RSV, with negative test results for these common viruses. The cough, lasting for up to forty days, is being treated with over-the-counter medications and humidifiers, although individuals with underlying health conditions are advised to consult their doctors before using these medications due to potential interactions.
Hospitals in the Lowcountry and across the state of South Carolina are reporting a rise in cases of flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Dr. Robert Oliverio, Chief Medical Officer for Ambulatory Care and Population Health at Roper St. Francis Healthcare, emphasizes the importance of vaccination to protect against these illnesses. He highlights that vaccination not only reduces the likelihood of severe illness, hospitalization, or death but also helps prevent the spread of viruses to vulnerable individuals. Oliverio urges people to get vaccinated, especially those with underlying health conditions, and emphasizes that vaccination rates are currently low. He also notes that the rise in respiratory illnesses is not unexpected during flu season and attributes the lower numbers last year to mask-wearing and social distancing. Oliverio encourages individuals to take steps to protect their immune system and prevent severe illness by getting vaccinated and practicing good hygiene.
A 1-year-old boy in Minnesota has died after contracting respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), marking the state's first RSV death of the season. The boy's family had also been diagnosed with COVID-19. The number of hospitalizations due to RSV is increasing, particularly among older individuals and young children. The family is now mourning the loss of their child and urging others to be aware of the potential dangers of RSV. The CDC recommends pregnant mothers and babies up to 6 months old receive the RSV vaccine.
Wisconsin may experience an early peak in respiratory virus cases this flu season, with health officials warning that "the flu is here." The state is already seeing an increase in flu-like illnesses, and experts are urging people to get vaccinated and take preventive measures to reduce the spread of the virus.
South Carolina is experiencing a high number of positive cases of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection (RSV), a common respiratory virus that can be serious in infants and older adults. The CDC reports that RSV infections cause millions of doctor visits, hospitalizations, and deaths in children under five every year. Positive cases in South Carolina are over 12% compared to previous years, overwhelming healthcare facilities. While most people experience RSV as a common cold, it can be dangerous for infants with underlying medical conditions, often requiring hospitalization. A vaccine has been approved, but supply is not meeting demand. Prevention measures include handwashing, avoiding contact with sick individuals, and being cautious around babies.
As the holiday season begins, concerns about catching respiratory viruses are on the rise. The fluctuating temperatures during winter months contribute to the spread of illnesses. Austin-Travis County EMS has switched to a stronger medication, dexamethasone, to treat patients more effectively. While family gatherings are common during holidays, precautions such as wearing masks, washing hands, and maintaining distance can help prevent the spread of sickness. Doctors emphasize the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals, as even minor illnesses can have severe consequences for immunocompromised individuals. Austin-Travis County EMS urges everyone to take precautions to ensure a safe Thanksgiving celebration.
Three new products, including vaccines and drugs, have been developed to prevent respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a dangerous illness that affects children under 5 and adults over 60. RSV can cause severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Two vaccines, Arexvy and Abrysvo, have been approved for adults 60 and older, as well as for individuals with chronic heart or lung conditions. Abrysvo can also be taken by pregnant women in their third trimester to pass protection to their unborn babies. Additionally, a non-vaccine drug called Beyfortus has been approved for infants, reducing the risk of RSV-related hospitalizations by 80%. However, shortages and financial barriers have limited access to these preventive measures. In the meantime, practicing good hygiene and getting vaccinated for influenza and COVID-19 can help enhance immunity against RSV.
Cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are rising in New Jersey, prompting experts to recommend a new RSV immunization called nirsevimab as a game-changer for reducing hospitalizations. However, the high demand for the drug has led to limited supplies, forcing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to issue an alert advising pediatricians to prioritize it for infants most at risk. Last year, New Jersey saw a significant spike in RSV cases, but this year the rise appears to be milder. RSV can be severe, especially for babies, older adults, and the immunocompromised. Nirsevimab, a monoclonal antibody treatment, has shown promising results in preventing hospital admissions and can protect children for an entire respiratory season.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued an alert to doctors regarding a limited availability of a newly approved antibody drug, Beyfortus, used to prevent respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in infants. RSV cases are increasing as cold and flu season begins, making it the most commonly identified respiratory virus causing disease in children. The highest dosage of Beyfortus, 100 milligrams, is in short supply, prompting the CDC to advise doctors to prioritize infants at the highest risk and preserve lower doses for infants who weigh less than 11 pounds. The FDA has not listed the drug as being in shortage, but demand has exceeded expectations. Another option to prevent RSV infections in infants is the antibody drug Synagis, which is approved for high-risk infants and can only be given during RSV season.
The RSV vaccine, designed for adults aged 60 and older, has been approved for use in the U.S. to prevent respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections. Common side effects of the vaccine include pain, redness, swelling at the injection site, fatigue, fever, headache, nausea, diarrhea, and muscle or joint pain. Severe reactions, although rare, have been linked to neurological complications such as Guillain-Barré syndrome. However, experts emphasize that the vaccine is generally safe and recommend it for individuals with underlying health conditions. Those considering the vaccine should consult with their healthcare provider to assess their individual risk-benefit ratio.
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a potentially fatal respiratory virus that is relatively unknown, is surging in Australia, with over 1,000 cases reported last week in New South Wales alone. HMPV can cause upper and lower respiratory disease, posing a greater risk to young children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals. While it typically presents as a mild infection similar to the common cold, complications can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia, especially in those with weakened immune systems. The surge in cases may be underestimated due to limited testing, as patients already positive for COVID-19 or the flu may not be tested for HMPV.