(HealthDay News) --Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a germ that can cause respiratory tract infections, including bronchiolitis (inflammation of the lower airways) and pneumonia in children and infants under the age of 1.
Secretions from the eye, mouth, or nose can spread the virus, which can also survive on inanimate objects such as doorknobs, hard surfaces, and toys. It can also live on human hands for up to 30 minutes.
The Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center says proper hand washing is important to prevent the spread of RSV.
In addition, two treatments are recommended for babies and children at high risk for RSV: an immune globulin injection; and Palivizumab, an RSV antibody. These are not vaccines, and do not prevent the virus, but help to lessen the severity of the illness and may help shorten a hospital stay.
