Mission BC Healthcare Tips – RSV (Respiratory Sincytial Virus)

RSV – What is it?

  • A virus that causes breathing problems
  • Kills 6000 to 10,000 people annually in the US
  • Significant number of people require hospitalization and intensive care
Mission BC Healthcare Tips - RSV (Respiratory Sincytial Virus)

Who is most at risk?

  • Infants less than 8 months old
  • The elderly – especially older than 75
  • Those with chronic disease – especially those with lung or heart problems
Mission BC Healthcare Tips - RSV (Respiratory Sincytial Virus)

Treatment

  • Supportive
    • Help with breathing – including mechanical ventilation when needed
    • Oxygen
    • Fluids
  • No benefit from Antibiotics

Prevention = Vaccination (75 to 85% effective)

Who Should be Vaccinated

  • Pregnant women
  • Seniors over the age of 60
  • People with chronic disease, especially heart or lung disease

Get Vaccinated for RSV. It will help keep you healthy!