Human orthopneumovirus

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

Human orthopneumovirus, also known as human respiratory syncytial virus (hRSV or RSV), is a common and contagious respiratory virus that affects the respiratory system. It is a member of the family Paramyxoviridae and the genus Orthopneumovirus. RSV is a significant cause of respiratory infections in young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. This article provides an overview of human orthopneumovirus, its transmission, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

Overview

Human orthopneumovirus is a negative-sense, single-stranded RNA virus that causes respiratory infections in humans. The virus was first identified in 1956 and is now recognized as one of the most common causes of lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) in children worldwide. RSV infections can range from mild cold-like symptoms to more severe respiratory illnesses, such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia.

Transmission

RSV is primarily spread through respiratory droplets from an infected person. Transmission can occur when an individual comes into direct contact with droplets from an infected person's cough or sneeze, or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching their eyes, nose, or mouth. The virus can survive on surfaces for several hours and is highly contagious.

Symptoms

Symptoms of RSV infection can vary depending on the age and overall health of the individual. Common symptoms include:

• Runny nose
• Nasal congestion
• Cough
• Low-grade fever
• Wheezing

In more severe cases, particularly among infants, young children, and older adults, RSV infection can lead to:

• Difficulty breathing
• Rapid or shallow breathing
• Bluish skin color due to lack of oxygen (cyanosis)
• Dehydration
• Lethargy

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of RSV infection is typically based on the presence of clinical symptoms and may be confirmed through laboratory testing. Common diagnostic methods include:

• Viral culture: A sample of nasal secretions is obtained and tested for the presence of RSV.
• Rapid antigen test: This test detects RSV antigens in nasal secretions and can provide results within a few hours.
• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR): PCR testing is a more sensitive method for detecting RSV RNA in respiratory samples.

Treatment

There is no specific antiviral treatment for RSV infection, and most cases resolve on their own with supportive care. Supportive care for mild RSV infections may include:

• Rest
• Hydration
• Over-the-counter pain relievers and fever reducers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
• Saline nasal drops or a cool-mist humidifier to help relieve congestion

In more severe cases or for individuals at high risk for complications, hospitalization may be necessary. Treatment for severe RSV infections may include:

• Supplemental oxygen therapy to help maintain adequate oxygen levels
• Intravenous (IV) fluids to prevent dehydration
• Bronchodilator medications to help relax the airways and improve breathing
• Mechanical ventilation in cases of respiratory failure

Prevention

There is currently no vaccine available for RSV. However, several preventive measures can help reduce the risk of infection:

• Frequent hand washing: Proper hand hygiene is crucial in preventing the spread of RSV and other respiratory infections.
• Avoiding close contact with infected individuals: People who are sick with RSV should avoid close contact with others, particularly infants, young children, and older adults.
• Disinfecting surfaces: Regular cleaning of frequently-touched surfaces can help reduce the risk of RSV transmission.
• Covering coughs and sneezes: Using a tissue or the crook of the elbow when coughing or sneezing can help prevent the spread of respiratory droplets.
• For high-risk infants, such as those born prematurely or with certain chronic medical conditions, a monthly injection of palivizumab (Synagis) may be recommended during the RSV season to help reduce the risk of severe infection. However, palivizumab is not a vaccine and does not provide long-term immunity against RSV.

See also

• Influenza
• Common cold
• Bronchiolitis
• Pneumonia

References

Human orthopneumovirus Resources
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