RSV Alert: The Hidden Threat to Adults You Need to Know About
RSV Infection in Adults: A Growing Concern
- RSV infection spreads during the rainy season, with a significant increase in cases from July to November each year.
- Older children can bring RSV home from school, spreading it to younger children and older family members.
- The elderly with underlying diseases are at risk for severe RSV infection, which can lead to pneumonia and death.
- Older adults are often undiagnosed as having RSV infection, making it essential to be aware of the symptoms and take preventive measures.
What is RSV Infection?
Associate Professor (Special) Dr. Thawee Chotipitayasunon, President of the Foundation for the Promotion of Influenza Studies, explains that RSV stands for Respiratory Syncytial Virus, a virus that has been found for a long time. Young children and the elderly are at risk groups for severe disease, especially those with chronic diseases.
Seasonal Respiratory Infection
RSV is a seasonal respiratory infection that starts in July and increases in September and October. The main source of RSV transmission is children who bring the virus back to their families from school. The elderly in the family often contract the virus from their children and grandchildren, which can be very dangerous.
Prevention and Treatment
Prof. Dr. Sasisopin Kiatburanakul, Infectious Disease Specialist at Ramathibodi Hospital, advises that prevention can be done in the same way as prevention of general viral infections, such as wearing a mask, washing your hands, keeping your distance, and not touching your face and eyes with your hands. Additionally, getting enough sleep, exercising, eating cooked, clean, and nutritious food can help strengthen the immune system. Vaccination is also an option to prevent RSV infection in adults.
A Growing Concern in Thailand
Associate Professor (Special) Dr. Thawee concludes that Thailand has entered a completely aging society, with the average life expectancy of Thais gradually increasing. However, getting older does not mean that the body will become stronger. Instead, it means more congenital diseases, and the body’s immune system deteriorating with age. As a result, infectious diseases experienced in childhood will recur in the elderly, which can lead to severe symptoms and even death.