The topic this month is RSV, a medical acronym for respiratory syncytial virus. The virus primarily spreads via respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It infects the nose, throat, and lungs. Transmission can also occur when a person touches their face after having direct contact with a contaminated surface.
When is RSV most prevalent? In the United States, RSV infections occur primarily during the fall and winter cold and flu season.
A common misconception about RSV is that RSV is a disease for infants and children. RSV causes 100-500 deaths each year in children less than five years old. However, RSV causes 14,000 deaths annually in adults aged 65 years and older.
The CDC states that adults at higher risk for severe infection are those 75 years and older. Severe infections are also found in adults with chronic heart or lung disease and those with weakened immune systems. Talk to your doctor about getting the vaccine to protect yourself and others.
Note: The Wellness Committee will be providing articles that should be of interest to residents of The Landings. The articles will appear monthly during high season in Florida.
