26Mar

Yes, adults can get RSV too. Here’s what to know about the viral illness that’s sending kids to the ICU.

Posted by: admin Categories: PULMONARY DISEASES

woman outside, blowing nose — Parents might not even notice they have RSV, but the illness can hit infants, toddlers, and elderly adults very hard.Bojanstory via Getty Images

Anyone can get infected with respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV.
But the illness tends to hit babies and older adults harder than school-age kids and parents.
Common symptoms include a runny nose, cough, sneezing, wheezing, and fever.

Pediatricians around the country are concerned about the number of children coming down with severe cases of respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV.

Emergency rooms, urgent care clinics, and ICUs are filling up earlier than usual this fall — a trend doctors believe is due in part to kids reentering school and daycare with COVID restrictions relaxed.

But little kids aren't the only ones catching RSV right now — their infections are just especially noticeable. RSV can cause dangerous cases of bronchitis and pneumonia in young children, which make it a leading cause of hospitalization for babies younger than 1. At least 100 children die from RSV every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

One reason the illness hits babies so hard is because they have little to no immunity built up against the virus. In addition, their small size makes them extra vulnerable.

"They get into wheezing and difficulty breathing — the tiny little airways are filled with mucus," Dr. Per Gesteland, a pediatric hospitalist at the University of Utah Health and Intermountain Primary Children's Hospital, told Insider.

You've probably had RSV before, and you'll probably get it again

baby with tubes in, doctor using machine — Some babies need help breathing when they have RSV.Business Wire via Associated Press, Seattle Children's

Normally, kids get RSV at least once by the time they're two years old, but that didn't reliably happen during the pandemic, as many daycares shuttered and caregivers masked up. That means that some toddlers, too, are getting severe cases of RSV right now — though most still have mild infections that can be managed at home. In addition to infants, RSV can also be deadly for adults over 65, whose immune systems weaken as they age.

School-going kids, teens, and younger adults, on the other hand, may catch RSV and never know it. They might remain completely asymptomatic, or else their symptoms are so mild they mistake the illness for a common cold.

RSV symptoms often arrive in stages, and may include:

Cough
Runny nose
Fever
Loss of appetite
Sneezing
Wheezing

"There's often that spread from the younger kids that pick it up in school and in the community, and then bring it home," Gesteland said. "The baby may get the brunt of it, and the parent may have just a little bit of an annoying cold, and the school-aged child may have a moderately significant upper respiratory infection."

Immunity doesn't last forever, and it is possible, though unusual, to get RSV twice in the same year. Typically when that happens, the second infection is milder.

Mothers may pass some RSV immunity on to their babies — but there's no vaccine for it yet

doctor in mask, coat, walking into patient room — Dr. Melanie Kitagawa directs the pediatric intensive care unit at Texas Children’s Hospital.Texas Children’s Hospital

It's not just kids who've avoided RSV infections over the past few years. Many parents also spent at least a year avoiding RSV while masking and distancing for COVID, and that may have dampened the immunity that mothers would typically pass to their children.

Dr. Behnoosh Afghani, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at UCI Health in Orange County, California, suspects that many babies and toddlers are getting exposed to RSV for the first time — without the usual protective antibodies their mothers might've passed on in utero or via breast milk if they'd had RSV recently.

There are some RSV vaccines in late-stage development for pregnant women and elderly adults, but for now, RSV prevention is relegated to the basic hygiene tips we've all heard before: good handwashing, staying away from sick people, and exercising caution around the most vulnerable among us. Avoiding kissing babies during cold and flu season is key, doctors say.

"I don't have a sort of golden piece of advice to prevent all of this," Dr. Melanie Kitagawa, medical director of the pediatric intensive care unit at Texas Children's Hospital, told Insider. "I just have to help the kids through, and give their bodies time to fight this virus."

Read the original article on Insider

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24Mar

Gov Fernando wants Bulakenyo kids to have vaccination vs pertussis

Posted by: admin Categories: PULMONARY DISEASES

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Bulacan Governor Daniel R. Fernando has ordered vaccination of children against pertussis, also known as whooping cough, after two cases have been confirmed in the province.

The governor directed the Provincial Health Office – Public Health to actively search for cases and identify children with incomplete vaccinations or those who have missed vaccinations.

“Mayroon na pong bakuna laban sa pertussis at ito po ay binibigay nang tatlong dosis para sa mga batang nasa 1 ½ month, 2 ½ month, 3 ½ month old. Ang bakunang ito ay pandaigdigan nang ginagamit, subok na ligtas at epektibo. Ito po ay libre kung kaya’t agad na pong pumunta sa pinakamalapit na health center para pabakunahan ang inyong mga anak,” Fernando said.

One confirmed case of pertussis was reported in San Jose del Monte City and another one in Meycauayan City.

To further prevent the spread of the disease, Fernando urged mothers to breastfeed newborns, keep them indoors and avoid bringing them to poorly ventilated areas to strengthen their immunity and prevent exposure to other illnesses.

He also asked Bulakenyos to remain vigilant and seek medical attention immediately if experiencing symptoms of pertussis, and adhere to preventive measures recommended by health authorities.

Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory tract infection that spreads easily through bacteria from breathing, coughing, and sneezing. Symptoms typically begin with a common cold, cough, and fever, but the cough can worsen within 1-2 weeks and can be particularly dangerous for infants and children specially for newly born babies who are still not eligible for vaccines, who may experience apnea, difficulty in breathing, and vomiting when infected.

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24Mar

2 cases of pertussis detected in Bulacan

Posted by: admin Categories: PREVENTION & WELLBEING

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CITY OF MALOLOS: In response to the emergence of a disease affecting infants and children in nearby areas of the province, the government of Bulacan has taken swift action after two cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, have been in San Jose del Monte City and Meycauayan.

Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory tract infection that spreads easily through bacteria from breathing, coughing and sneezing. Symptoms typically begin with a common cold, cough, and fever, but can worsen in one or two weeks and can be particularly dangerous for infants and children, especially for newborns who are still not eligible for vaccines, who may experience apnea, difficulty in breathing, and vomiting when infected.

Katrina Anne Balingit, head of the Provincial Public Affairs Office (PPAO), said upon confirmation of the cases, Gov. Daniel Fernando has directed the Provincial Health Office to actively search for cases and identify children with incomplete vaccinations or those who have missed vaccinations.

Fernando said there is already a vaccine against pertussis which is given three doses for children 1 1/2, 2 1/2 and 3 1/2 months old.

He said the vaccine, which has been in use worldwide, is safe to use and effective. Parents are advised to proceed to the nearest health centers to have their children vaccinated.

To further prevent the spread of the disease, Fernando has suggested breastfeeding newborns, keeping them indoors and avoid bringing them to poorly ventilated areas to strengthen their immunity and prevent exposure to other illnesses.

He also recommends refraining from getting near infants or children if one is sick and experiencing symptoms such as fever and cough, practicing regular handwashing with soap and water at home, and covering one's nose and mouth with a tissue or cloth when coughing or sneezing.

He also urged the people of Bulacan to remain vigilant and seek medical attention immediately if experiencing symptoms of pertussis, and adhere to preventive measures recommended by health authorities.

Meanwhile, Dr. Edwin Tecson, provincial health officer 1, said that the Provincial Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit is currently conducting investigation and contact tracing to determine other cases.

Vaccination efforts against pertussis are being prioritized, especially in areas with confirmed cases, with support from the Department of Health and City and Municipal Health Offices.

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23Mar

Frequent sneezing can be dangerous for health, if these symptoms are visible then do this immediately

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Frequent sneezing, although commonly dismissed as a minor inconvenience, can sometimes indicate underlying health issues that should not be ignored. While the occasional sneeze is a natural response to irritants in the nasal passages, persistent or frequent sneezing may be a sign of an underlying health condition.

Potential Health Risks

Respiratory Infections: Frequent sneezing can be a symptom of respiratory infections such as the common cold, flu, or sinusitis. These infections can weaken the immune system and lead to more severe complications if left untreated.

Allergies: Allergic reactions to various environmental triggers such as pollen, dust, pet dander, or mold can cause frequent sneezing. Allergies left unmanaged can impact daily life and worsen over time.

Nasal Irritation: Exposure to irritants like strong odors, smoke, or pollutants can trigger frequent sneezing. Chronic exposure to these irritants may lead to inflammation of the nasal passages and respiratory issues.

Underlying Conditions: In some cases, frequent sneezing can be a symptom of underlying health conditions such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, or even nasal polyps. Identifying and treating these conditions is crucial for overall well-being.

Immediate Actions to Take

Identify Triggers: Pay attention to potential triggers that may be causing frequent sneezing. Keeping a symptom diary can help pinpoint patterns and identify possible allergens or irritants.

Seek Medical Advice: If frequent sneezing is accompanied by other symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, or difficulty breathing, consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.

Manage Allergies: For allergies, consider allergy testing to identify specific triggers. Once identified, take steps to minimize exposure to allergens and follow a treatment plan recommended by a healthcare provider.

Practice Good Hygiene: Maintain good hygiene practices such as frequent handwashing, covering your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing, and avoiding close contact with individuals who are sick.

Use Nasal Irrigation: Nasal irrigation with saline solution can help flush out irritants and relieve nasal congestion, reducing the frequency of sneezing.

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to keep nasal passages moist and reduce irritation. Warm beverages like herbal tea or broth can also provide soothing relief.

Consider Over-the-Counter Remedies: Over-the-counter antihistamines or decongestants may provide temporary relief from sneezing and other allergy symptoms. However, consult a healthcare professional before starting any new medication.

While occasional sneezing is usually harmless, frequent or persistent sneezing can be a cause for concern and may indicate an underlying health issue. By understanding the potential risks associated with frequent sneezing and taking proactive measures to address them, individuals can protect their health and well-being.

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23Mar

COVID symptoms aren’t what they used to be. Here’s how they’ve changed over time, and what they look like now

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Losing the ability to taste and smell is no longer common among COVID patients, according to a new study that highlights the virus’s ever-changing nature.

Sore throat, runny nose, nasal congestion, persistent cough, and headache are now the most common symptoms of COVID among the fully vaccinated, the Zoe Health Study found. The study, run by scientists at Harvard and Stanford universities, is based on data submitted by U.S. and U.K. participants logging in their symptoms via an app for research purposes.

The new symptom list stands in contrast with classic, more severe COVID-19 symptoms such as persistent cough, loss of smell, fever, and shortness of breath that were common at the pandemic’s outset. Such symptoms now rank as No. 5, 6, 8, and 29, respectively, according to the study.

Symptoms that are common presently among those who had one vaccine dose include headache, runny nose, sore throat, sneezing, and persistent cough. Symptoms among the unvaccinated are very similar but include fever instead of sneezing, and a sore throat more often than a runny nose.

Interestingly, those who have been vaccinated and have COVID are more likely to report sneezing than those who have not been vaccinated and have COVID.

“If you’ve been vaccinated and start sneezing a lot without an explanation, you should get a COVID test, especially if you are living or working around people who are at greater risk from the disease,” the authors wrote.

While COVID patients requiring hospitalization during the Delta wave in late 2021 tended to have pneumonia-like symptoms, COVID patients during the Omicron era more often have symptoms similar to the common cold, according to a June article in Infectious Disease Reports. The four commonly circulating human coronaviruses aside from COVID usually present as common colds.

The shift likely occurred because the Delta variant tended to thrive in the lower respiratory system of those infected, while the Omicron variant, especially more recent strains, tends to thrive in the upper respiratory system. That’s subject to change, however, as the virus evolves.

It’s impossible to say whether Omicron is less severe than Delta, experts say, because the population has continued to build its immunity as the virus evolves. When people are infected or vaccinated, it boosts their immune systems—and while antibody immunity lasts only a few months, T-cell immunity, which can make infections milder, lasts for much longer.

It’s possible that COVID is becoming more akin to the seasonal flu, experts say, with milder, cold-like symptoms and cases that are more common during winter. But it’s too early to tell, they caution, adding that the virus could change course at any point.

Researchers are keeping an eye this fall on strains of COVID that appear similar to Omicron-Delta hybrids, and one, XBC, that’s an actual hybrid of the two, Raj Rajnarayanan, assistant dean of research and associate professor at the New York Institute of Technology campus in Jonesboro, Ark., recently told Fortune.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com

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21Mar

Invasion by a gang of respiratory viruses

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We certainly have no shortage of flu-like illnesses, and, for most people, unless you become very ill, you rarely seek medical attention, and you rarely think that it makes a difference whether it is a “bad cold”, the common cold – caused by one of a variety of viruses but often a rhinovirus or one of the more aggressive respiratory viruses like the coronavirus, the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) or even the influenza virus. In this part of the world, flu is rarely listed as a cause of hospitalisation or even death.

These viruses are all highly contagious, and a majority of persons who come in contact with them seem to develop symptoms. The results are seen when homes, schools and workplaces are disrupted by affected individuals. Except in special instances, we cannot identify the specific viruses, and antiviral medication is rarely available, so treating the symptoms is the order of the day.

Common symptoms include a runny nose, sneezing and congestion, but individuals may also have muscle pains, a cough that produces phlegm, sneezing, watery or itchy eyes, or even a headache, a post-nasal drip, and generalised malaise. Depending on the particular set of symptoms and an individual’s past medical experiences, these may even be diagnosed as sinusitis, allergies, or blamed on the Sahara dust that adds to the normal dust that settles down around our homes or workplaces.

The challenge posed by viral illnesses, whether aggressive or not, is that they can (and do) cause varying damage by causing inflammation within individuals. In persons with healthy immune systems, when challenged by these viruses, a mild 24-72 hour illness results, and folklore remedies include a variety of rub-downs, a variety of teas or hot chicken soup, or, at least for men of a certain age, a good “stiff-one” will help.

If you have a simple head cold or 24-hour bug, there is not too much to be concerned about. But COVID-19, RSV and influenza, which our Ministry of Health and Wellness tells us are circulating here, are more serious maladies that require a careful approach. That’s because these viral infections tend to cause whole-body inflammation, and hence are more likely to cause long-lasting symptoms: “Doc, I have had the cold for over a month now, [like an old boyfriend] it refuses to leave me.”

This inflammation can irritate your heart and lungs, which ultimately can affect your breathing and the way your heart beats. It takes some time for your body to completely recover from these viral infections, sometimes weeks or months. It can take even longer than average to recover if you’re an older adult or have underlying health concerns, such as diabetes or high blood pressure.

The last iron lung has passed

Posted by: admin Categories: PULMONARY DISEASES

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Polio survivor lived a life full of success and purpose despite odds

by Bethany Wagoner
[email protected]

Posted 3/20/24

Paul Alexander became ill as a boy, his illness was not a common cold, a case of RSV or even as simple as a bout of chicken pox. Alexander was stricken with polio.

In 1952, the Dallas native …

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