Cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection have numbered in the hundreds in Quebec since the beginning of November. It particularly affects older people and young children. Although a vaccine is available for seniors, this is not yet the case for toddlers.
Last September, a preventative RSV vaccine was approved in Canada. We can also see advertisements featuring hockey legend Wayne Gretzky promoting the Arexvy vaccine to protect seniors against severe complications.
However, the vast majority of cases of infections concern children under four years old. According to data transmitted by the Ministry of Health and Social Services (MSSS), the number of cases per 10,000 people amounts to 181.90 among those aged 0-5 months and 74.23 among those aged 6- 23 months. In comparison, there are 0.71 cases among those aged 60-69 and 2.73 cases among those aged 70 and over.
This virus causes respiratory infections that can lead to complications in people at risk, including young children and the elderly. The MSSS mentions that the number of positive screening tests has been increasing since September. In November alone, we went from 292 cases in the week ending November 4, to 585 cases in the week ending November 25.
According to experts consulted by The Canadian Press, it is considered that virtually all children will have contracted RSV at least once before the age of three. If this seems inevitable, we can still adopt preventive behaviors in order to delay this first encounter with the virus as long as possible.
It is recommended to avoid exposing young children to people who show symptoms of respiratory infection. Washing your hands and wearing a mask in case of symptoms of respiratory infection are also suggested if you find yourself in the presence of a young child.
The MSSS specifies that RSV can be spread during close contact with an infected person, but also through contact with a contaminated surface. People who have a fever are asked to stay home. Those who notice a new or worsening cough, sore throat or nasal congestion are advised to wear a mask in public. It is recommended to stay away from others for a period of 10 days following the appearance of symptoms.
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