By James M. Mick, M.D.
It’s that time of year again – the holidays! It is also flu and RSV season. Both influenza (the flu) and RSV are viral infections and cannot be treated with antibiotics.
Influenza comes on suddenly with fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, tiredness and a dry cough. Progressively sore throat, runny and stuffy nose, and cough become more prominent. Occasionally croup or pneumonia can develop.
Influenza can be prevented by vaccine, either a live nasally administered version (flumist) or a killed injectable type (flu shot). Vaccination is recommended for everyone six months of age and older. It should happen every year, since immunity wears off and the vaccine is updated to cover new strains and other changes in the virus. Vaccinations are available at most pediatrician offices, Yavapai County Health Department and many pharmacies. Most insurances cover all costs of flu vaccines, and children without insurance are eligible for free vaccinations through Vaccines for Children (VFC).
RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) causes respiratory infection in all ages, but tends to cause lower respiratory tract infections (bronchiolitis, pneumonia) in infants and young children. It is especially worrisome in the first year of life and in infants who have heart or lung disease. Signs of illness include common cold symptoms, wheezing, working hard to breathe, poor feeding and sleeping, and occasionally lethargy and long pauses between breaths.
Those at high risk with predisposing conditions (prematurity, weak lungs or heart) can have expensive monthly antibody shots. The best preventative measures are still routine thorough hand washing and avoiding exposure to illness, especially between November and April. There is no vaccine like there is for influenza.
Once a child contracts RSV, there is no antiviral medicine available for treatment. For influenza, antiviral medications have some benefit if given within the first 48 hours of illness. Treatment for both includes measures to reduce aches, cough and other symptoms. If necessary, oxygen, IV fluids and hospital care are available. In other words, the old adage, “an ounce (or less) of prevention” still applies.
Have a healthy, happy Holiday Season!
Dr. Mick has been caring for local children since 1986 at Ponderosa Pediatrics, PLC. For more information on children’s health, go to www.ponderosapediatrics.com.
