Trending
Allegheny Health Network, an affiliate of Warren General Hospital since 2018, is providing tips for those with children as cases of viral respiratory infections and flu rise into the holiday season.
"Our AHN outpatient pediatric offices have seen an increase in cases of respiratory syncytial virus and influenza, which tracks with what we're seeing nationally, and we anticipate these numbers will continue to rise this month as we gather and travel for the holidays," said AHN Pediatric Institute Chair Joseph Aracri said in a release.
The Centers for Disease Control is reporting increases in cases of respiratory syncytial virus, flu and COVID-19 nationally and cases in Pennsylvania have nearly tripled in the last month.
RSV, according to the release, is a common cause of mild cold-like symptoms that can cause lung infections and trouble breathing in severe cases. It is particularly dangerous for infants and older adults.
"Symptoms associated with respiratory viruses in children include runny nose, decrease in appetite, cough, fever and wheezing," according to the release.
The release recommends the following:
Treat the symptoms: there are no antibiotics for these viruses. The best approach is to make children comfortable by treating their symptoms with appropriate over-the-counter medication, rest and plenty of fluids. Lukewarm baths also help with reducing mild to moderate fevers and nasal aspirators can clear excess mucus.
Always consult a pediatrician's office for specific questions or concerns and remember that some viruses can last up to two weeks.
Recognize when to head to the emergency room: if a child has a rectal temperature higher than 104 degrees fahrenheit, or 100.4 degrees if younger than three months; trouble breathing; abdominal pain; extreme lethargy and/or persistent vomiting or diarrhea seek immediate care at the nearest emergency room.
Rely on pediatricians team for support: if you have any questions or concerns outside of emergency circumstances reach out to a child's pediatrician.
Practice preventive measures: during the holiday season, it's important to wash hands frequently and help children develop a vigilant hand washing routine, maintain social distance when appropriate, and stay home if under the weather. Stay up to date with vaccinations for all members of the household.
The release noted keeping children away from social situations is not a healthy way to prevent illness.
"A recent study published in JAMA (the Journal of the American Medical Association) also indicated that children are much less likely to contract COVID-19 in a childcare environment, compared to when a family member becomes ill. Transmission rates at childcare centers among those studied remained between two and three percent, while 50 percent transmission rate was found when COVID was on the home front."