Q and A with the Experts: RSV prevention for vulnerable populations

Your questions about vaccinating against RSV answered here Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common virus that seriously affects vulnerable populations such as infants, young children and older adults. Dr. Wasem Alsabbagh , associate professor at the University of Waterloo School of Pharmacy, answers frequently asked questions about RSV. Why should I be concerned about RSV? RSV is the leading cause of respiratory tract infections and hospitalizations among infants in Canada. About 80% of children who are hospitalized with bronchitis have RSV, while 20% of infants hospitalized with pneumonia have RSV. What are the symptoms of RSV? Patients with RSV present with fever, chills, difficulty sleeping and/or eating. Symptoms in infants range from nasal congestion, cough, and runny nose to severe symptoms of wheezing, shortness of breath, fast breathing and may lead to pneumonia or bronchitis. Parents are urged to seek medical care immediately when symptoms of severe RSV develop.