Subtype a is the one that predominates in many of the outbreaks that are seen and presents much more severe clinical illness. It affects both the lower and the upper respiratory tract but is most prevalent in illnesses of the lower respiratory tract such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia. The obstruction of the airway in RSV can be very dangerous, and this is especially true of infants because their peripheral airways are much smaller than adults. Because of this it is very important to know what the warning signs of the illness are so that children can be treated properly and can recover fully. Infants between age two months and six months are most at risk for RSV, as are premature babies and babies that have other problems that may make their immune system not as efficient such as those that have lung conditions, congenital heart disease, cystic fibrosis, a lack of breast-feeding, older siblings within the home environment, daycare attendance, strong exposure to secondhand cigarette smoke, and a lower socioeconomic status which often correlates with fewer doctor visits and treatment...
For those that have only mild disease the only treatment necessary is the treatment of symptoms such as the giving of acetaminophen in order to reduce fever. In general, in other words, mild RSV is treated basically like a common cold or other mild respiratory illness. Children that have a severe form of the disease, however, often need oxygen therapy and sometimes they even require mechanical ventilation with a breathing machine. Currently researchers are working on a vaccine for RSV but since there are none yet available those that are at high risk must take care and parents must work to protect young children and newborn babies from the illness (www.cdc.gov,2005).
It has also been suggested that low-level viral replication associated with RSV may be a driver in chronic inflammation in some sufferers of chronic lung disease, although this is so far uncertain (Openshaw, 2005). It is estimated that infants who develop a wheeze as a result of RSV contraction develop a recurring wheeze in around two thirds of all cases. It is also estimated that around half of these children
The worldwide outbreak of life threatening respiratory illness is called the severe acute respiratory syndrome. With the epicenters of the syndrome being Hong Kong and Guangdong province in China, the illness has spread to more than 25 countries. However, infants and young children are not a special risk group for the syndrome. The characteristics of this syndrome include an incubation time of up to 10 days, prodromal signs such as
R.'s secretions, administration of I.V. fluids to keep B.R. hydrated, and, prior to hospitalization, the administration of albuterol. B.R.'s breathing was labored and was not significantly improved by the interventions, although suctioning to clear the airways and the introduction of oxygen ensured adequate oxygen intake. Postiaux et al. found that the addition of prolonged slow expirations and provoked coughs could contribute "actively to a direct and immediate drainage of secretions" (2011).
Our semester plans gives you unlimited, unrestricted access to our entire library of resources —writing tools, guides, example essays, tutorials, class notes, and more.
Get Started Now