Süntsütiaalviiruses

Süntsütiaalviiruses, more commonly known as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. However, for infants and older adults, RSV can be serious, leading to more severe respiratory illnesses such as pneumonia or bronchiolitis.

RSV is highly contagious and spreads through droplets in the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also spread by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching one's face. Symptoms typically appear within four to six days after infection and can include runny nose, coughing, sneezing, fever, and wheezing. In more severe cases, infants may exhibit difficulty breathing, rapid breathing, or poor feeding.

Most people recover from RSV within one to two weeks. However, for vulnerable populations, complications can arise, necessitating hospitalization. There is no specific antiviral treatment for RSV. Management focuses on supportive care, such as relieving symptoms and ensuring adequate hydration. Prevention measures include frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and cleaning frequently touched surfaces. For high-risk individuals, particularly infants, vaccines and monoclonal antibody therapies are available to help prevent severe illness.