(StatePoint) Every year, as much as 160,000 older adults dwelling in america are hospitalized and as many as 10,000 die because of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). RSV is a extremely contagious virus that spreads by means of shut contact with contaminated people, sometimes rising through the fall and peaking in winter.
Whereas most individuals with RSV develop gentle signs, like that of a typical chilly, RSV could cause extreme sickness in older adults, particularly these with sure medical situations, like power lung illness, power coronary heart illness or a weakened immune system. That’s why the American Lung Affiliation, with help from GlaxoSmithKline, is encouraging adults at elevated danger for extreme sickness to guard themselves towards RSV. Right here’s what they need you to know:
Extreme Sickness is Preventable: In 2023, RSV vaccines grew to become accessible to assist shield older adults from extreme RSV sickness, nevertheless, based on the newest knowledge, solely 24% of older adults acquired it. The Facilities for Illness Management and Prevention recommends RSV vaccination for adults aged 75 and older, and adults ages 60 to 74 at elevated danger for extreme RSV illness. You will get vaccinated any time, however the very best time to obtain an RSV vaccination is late summer time and early fall earlier than RSV begins to unfold locally. When you’ve got already acquired an RSV vaccine, you do not want one other one. Discuss along with your healthcare supplier about whether or not RSV vaccination is really helpful for you.
“Vaccination is essential to saving lives and lowering hospitalizations through the respiratory virus season, however sadly, not sufficient older adults are getting vaccinated and disparities persist that put some populations at elevated danger of extreme sickness,” says Albert Rizzo, MD., chief medical officer of the American Lung Affiliation.
Nationwide Immunization Survey knowledge reveals that RSV vaccination charges differ, with 27% of white/non-Hispanic adults having acquired a vaccine, in comparison with 21% of Black/non-Hispanic adults, and 15% of Hispanic/Latino adults. On the similar time, Black and Hispanic/Latino populations have greater charges of underlying situations that enhance the chance of extreme RSV sickness.
Wholesome Habits Can Additionally Assist Cease the Unfold: Along with vaccination, you possibly can assist cease the unfold of RSV with these on a regular basis actions:
• Washing your arms with cleaning soap and water for 20 seconds
• Masking your coughs and sneezes with a tissue
• Avoiding shut contact with people who find themselves sick
• Staying at residence if you end up sick and avoiding shut contact with others
• Cleansing ceaselessly touched surfaces
• Taking steps for cleaner indoor air
For extra details about RSV in adults and to study steps to stop extreme sickness, go to Lung.org/rsv.
“An oz of prevention is price a pound of treatment. Nonetheless, should you do get sick with RSV this winter, make sure to look ahead to indicators of extreme sickness, equivalent to shortness of breath and worsening signs, and search immediate medical consideration if wanted,” says Dr. Rizzo.
