The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has issued a regional alert on an increase in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cases, stating that “it will reach pre-pandemic levels and associated hospitalizations predominantly among children under two years of age.” ”

It should be noted that every year This disease is responsible for the death of more than 100,000 young children worldwide. UNICEF. On the other hand, more than 5,000 premature babies a year can suffer from it across the country. National Institute of Statistics and Informatics (INEI).

WHAT IS RESPIRATORY SYNCYTHIAL VIRUS?

RSV is a viral infection that is dangerous in pediatric age, especially in premature babies born before 32 weeks of gestation, and can leave consequences such as asthma and other cognitive problems for life. For this reason, it is absolutely essential to prevent it. The immaturity of the lungs and the weakness of their immune system create more risk in this risk group. In addition, premature babies often require intensive care in neonatal units, putting them at greater risk of infection.

“The National Institutes of Health has informed us of an increase in acute syncytial virus infections in the country. Unfortunately, treatment for this disease is only available in the private sector and not in the public sector, which shows an injustice in terms of health rights. This even represents a 4 and 13 year delay in preventive measures compared to Uruguay, Argentina, Mexico, Colombia, Brazil and Chile, countries that already have this procedure in place to prevent RSV among the smallest.” stands out Edson Aguilar, Vice President of Voces Ciudadanas, a Peruvian civil society organization that advocates for health rights.

In Chile, the disease has already spread, triggering a new state of emergency. In Peru, thousands of symptomatic children are not adequately assessed due to lack of access to a diagnostic test and national monitoring. Therefore, exact figures for the prevalence of the virus in the country are unknown, as is the true incidence and causative agent of an acquired infection such as bronchiolitis, viral pneumonia, or RSV.

PREVENTION

In this line Carmen Davilaa pediatric neonatologist, suggests three preventive measures that parents can take into account to help prevent the spread of RSV, which are similar to those for the common cold:

Family Education: Being a highly contagious disease, parents need to be educated about preventive actions that minors should take, such as washing hands with soap and water for more than 20 seconds. It is dynamic so that children can understand risk factors and basic prevention measures. In addition, it is important to avoid close contact with people with respiratory symptoms and to use a mask correctly if such closeness cannot be avoided. If you have a respiratory illness, do not visit public places and, if unavoidable, wear a mask.

Reduce your stay in possible foci of infection: In times of high contagiousness, such as now, it is recommended to reduce the time children spend in kindergartens or other potentially contagious environments. Even if the house has a common room for siblings, it is advisable to separate them until further notice.

Be aware of the symptoms: Symptoms are usually a runny nose, decreased appetite (in children and infants), coughing, sneezing, fever, and wheezing. In very young children, signs may include irritability, decreased activity, and shortness of breath. If you find any signs that your child is having difficulty breathing, it is important to contact a medical center immediately.



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