What is an RS virus?
The respiratory syncytial virus, or RS virus or RSV for short, belongs to the paramyxoviruses. It is transmitted via a droplet infection. This means that the pathogen is transmitted to other people via small droplets that are formed when speaking, coughing or sneezing.
Especially in the winter months, an increase in infections with the RS virus can be observed. The RS virus has a high infectious power and especially children get infected with the virus. In these children it causes an inflammation of the lower respiratory tract, which manifests itself with the symptoms of fever and respiratory distress.
Symptoms of RSV infection
The RS virus has no specific symptoms by which an infection can be immediately recognized. Rather, a broad spectrum of symptoms of the respiratory tract occurs, which can also occur in infections with other pathogens. In children, an important symptom of RS virus infection is high fever.
In addition, there are signs of respiratory distress: in addition to the changes in breathing, a cough can develop. In the early stages of the infection, children may show reduced appetite and rhinitis.
- These are, for example, an increased breathing rate and greater effort when breathing.
Other signs of breathing difficulties can be observed, especially in small children.
- In the area of the ribs, the skin may be drawn inwards in the interrib spaces. To compensate for the shortness of breath, the body tries to draw more air into the lungs by creating a stronger negative pressure during inhalation. This results in the above-mentioned retractions.
- In addition, one can observe a rapid movement of the nostrils, both during inhalation and exhalation. This helps to enlarge the airways and allows a greater airflow.
- In addition, the head is often placed in the neck in order to expand the larynx and allow a larger inflow of air.
- The exhalation phase may be prolonged in this infection.
- Due to the lack of oxygen, the lips, among other things, can become bluish.