Diagnosis and treatment of children with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection

The article was professionally consulted by Doctor of Pediatrics - Neonatology - Vinmec Nha Trang International General Hospital.

RSV virus can be identified in nasal secretions or respiratory secretions of sick children by culture of the virus.
However, when performing RSV tests, it is necessary to isolate because the virus has a high risk of spreading.

To diagnose respiratory syncytial infection, the doctor will base on the physical examination and the time of illness. Diagnostic methods include:
Listening to the lungs with a stethoscope, to check for unusual sounds or wheezing. A painless percutaneous (oxygen pulse) measurement to check if the blood oxygen saturation level is lower than normal. Test for RSV by taking respiratory secretions. Blood tests, which check the white blood cell count to detect a viral or bacterial infection. X-ray to check for pneumonia.

Current treatment for RSV virus is mainly to treat symptoms during the infection and the effects of the virus on the respiratory system.
With the majority of children infected with RSV and presenting with mild, uncomplicated bronchiolitis, children with the disease without risk factors can be treated and cared for at home.
3.1 Measures to treat RSV virus at home Instill the nose or nasal spray with physiological saline (about 2-3 drops), then use a respiratory mucus suction device and wipe to clear the nose of the child, Help children breathe easier and eat better. Feed the baby or eat well. Split feedings or meals to reduce vomiting when your baby coughs a lot. Let your child drink enough water to avoid dehydration, and at the same time, water will thin the phlegm as well as respiratory mucus and reduce coughing. Give your child medication as directed by the doctor. Avoid buying medicine for children to take on their own because it can make the disease worse when treating the disease incorrectly. Have the child re-examined on time and especially monitor and pay attention to detect signs that need to take the child to the doctor immediately.

3.2 Measures to treat RSV virus in hospital Children with more severe symptoms need to be hospitalized for treatment. At the hospital, the treatment for RSV virus infection is as follows:
In severe cases, the child feels uncomfortable, wheezing and produces a lot of respiratory mucus that prevents air from reaching the alveoli of the lungs, the child needs to breathe. oxygen or having to take salbutamol to dilate the airways (asthma medicine). In severe cases, the child cannot breathe, the doctor can carry out breathing support measures. Your doctor will prescribe some other supportive medications and antibiotics if necessary. Note that during the treatment of RSV virus with drugs, if the child encounters any unusual problems, parents or caregivers should immediately discuss with the doctor to adjust the appropriate regimen.
If the child has a digestive disorder, consult a doctor about whether to change the medicine or supplement with probiotics for the child. If after treatment, the child has a long-term digestive disorder, it is necessary to take the child to the doctor.

RSV infection can be prevented by the following measures:
Limit or prevent children's exposure to secondhand smoke because it can increase the risk of infections. Wash hands with antibacterial soap and clean water before and after contact with children. Avoid kissing or close contact with the child when unwell. Avoid contact with premature infants receiving care in the hospital with cough, fever, sneezing, runny nose. Limit children to crowded places, especially during the RSV epidemic season. Regularly clean, clean, sanitize the house and household items. Thus, treatment of respiratory syncytial virus infection is mainly symptomatic. Children can be treated and cared for at home for mild illnesses. In severe cases, the child needs to be cared for and treated in a hospital.
To prevent children from being infected with viruses and other diseases, parents should add some supportive foods containing lysine, essential micro-minerals and vitamins such as zinc, chromium, selenium, B vitamins. , ... helps to fully meet the needs of nutrients while supporting the immune system, enhancing resistance, reducing the risk of upper respiratory tract infections, bronchitis, flu.
Lysine is very necessary for the development of children, Lysine promotes the production of digestive enzymes to stimulate children to eat better and digest easily and effectively, increase food metabolism, maximize absorption of nutrients. Nutrition from food. Fortifying lysine for babies also helps the body create antibodies, develop resistance to help reduce cough, thin phlegm in children.
Parents can learn more:
Why do you need to supplement Lysine for your baby?
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