EEH: Respiratory viruses are back to “normal”

During the fall and winter of 2020-21, cases of flu among children dropped dramatically.

Medical experts believe the heavy emphasis on masking, social distancing and staying home played a large role in keeping cases low.

Now, with society more open, travel increasing and people getting tired of pandemic safety measures, such as masks, respiratory viruses are beginning to circulate at a level closer to pre-pandemic levels.

Cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which typically peak in the fall, surged this past summer in some parts of the U.S. Experts have speculated that the suppression of viral spread through the winter of 2020 merely delayed the usual season.

RSV, like flu and other respiratory viruses, usually cause mild to moderate symptoms in healthy older kids and adults. But in some people, these viruses can lead to serious complications.

Parents are already seeing respiratory viral infections spreading through their children’s schools — more in line with what is typically seen during cold and flu season.

Getting a flu shot is an important step in protecting adults, kids and others from seasonal flu.

Also, children ages 5 and older can now get the COVID-19 vaccine, offering protection from severe COVID-19 illness for the winter ahead.

How do you know whether a child has a viral infection?

Common symptoms of respiratory viral infections include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Runny/congested nose
• Body aches
• Fatigue
• Chills
• Headache
• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting or diarrhea

Often a respiratory viral infection can lead to complications, such as tonsillitis, laryngitis, bronchitis, pneumonia or croup.

How is a viral infection treated?

Since antibiotics do not work against viruses, the primary way to treat a respiratory viral infection is at home with rest, fluids and over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Parents should ask their child’s pediatrician or family medicine physician for direction if they have questions.

When should someone seek medical attention for a viral infection?

Healthy children with mild symptoms do not typically need medical attention unless they are having trouble breathing, aren’t drinking or have a fever that lasts more than two days.

What can people do to prevent illness?

• Wash hands frequently.
• Avoid contact with sick people.
• Clean and disinfect at home, focusing on things people often touch such as doorknobs, toys, light switches and handles.
• Cover the nose and mouth when coughing and sneeze with a tissue or the crook of the arm covering the nose and mouth.
• If someone is sick, they should stay home to prevent the spread of germs.

One way to protect against illnesses like croup is hand washing. Encourage kids to wash their hands regularly and properly.

Get more information at EEHealth.org/services/children.