Season 2 Episode 8: Situational Update on COVID-19/Flu/RSV Pt.2

Season 2, Episode 8,   Dec 30, 2022, 10:06 AM

Additional resources


Q1: What is RSV?

  • Respiratory syncytial virus, also known as RSV, is a common respiratory virus that spreads through virus-containing repiratory droplets produced from coughing and sneezing
  • For most children, RSV produces mild illness. However, young children are especially susceptible to RSV. 
  • Those at higher risk of severe illness are:
    • Children under the age of 2
    • Premature infants
    • Infants with congenital or chornic cardiopulmonary disease
    •  Older adults 65+
    • Children and adults with weakend immune systems
  • When children are first infected with RSV, between 25-40% will have symptoms of bronchiolitis or penumonia
  • Yet, it’s important to keep in mind that only about 2% of children will require hospitalization


Q2: What are signs and symtpoms of RSV?

  • Symptoms will show within 4 to 6 days after getting infected. 
    • Runny nose
    • Decrease in appeitite
    • Sneezing
    • Fever
    • Wheezing
  • Symptoms in infants with RSV may be
    • Irritability
    • Decrease activity 
    • Breathing difficulties
  • These symptoms usually appear in stages and not all at once.


Q3: What is the impact of RSV in the Black and African American community?

  • Research has show that due to racism-related stress Black and African American women are more likely to deliver a premature baby. 

  • The risk of contracting RSV is even higher for premature babies. Making this of particular concern for Black and African American community. 

  • Being aware of the impact of RSV on the community and the preventive steps that can be taken, is critical to protect the health and well-being of children.  



Q4: What are some safety measure one should take?

  • Stay home when sick to help protect other others in the community from catching the illness, if possible

  • Avoid close contact with sick people

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds 

  • Disinfect high touched surfaces such as doorknobs and mobile devices 

  • Consider a mask in crowded indoor settings

  • During this time of year, it’s recommend to stay up to date on flu and COVID vaccinations to help prevent other repiratory illness. 

  • If you have questions about your child’s care, call your health care provider or visit an urgent care center. 


Document accessibility: For individuals with disabilities or individuals who speak a language other than English, OHA can provide information in alternate formats such as translations, large print, or braille. Contact the Health Information Center at 1-971-673-2411, 711 TTY or COVID19.LanguageAccess@dhsoha.state.or.us.
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Season 2 Episode 9: Situational Update on COVID-19/Flu/RSV Pt. 3
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