It’s not just the COVID-19 virus that’s currently circulating in Quebec. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is also very present, with the onset of the cold season. What do we know about this virus? Should we worry? We answer your questions.
• Read also: No, we have not tried to hide the truth about the effectiveness of vaccines
• Read also: Here are 7 reasons to get your booster dose
“Are they all sick at home? 🤒 If it’s not COVID, it’s entirely possible that respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the culprit! CHU de Sherbrooke medical microbiologist Alex Carignan tweeted Tuesday.
Also on Twitter, he said that RSV currently has a positivity rate – the percentage of all viral tests that give a positive result – of 11% in Quebec.
But what exactly is RSV?
It’s a well-known respiratory virus that resembles a cold or flu, says Alain Lamarre, professor and researcher in immunology and virology at the National Institute for Scientific Research (INRS).
Its main symptoms are:
- Nasal congestion
- Rhinorrhea
- Sore throat
- Fever (in some cases)
RSV is “very contagious” and is a “virus that can persist on surfaces, better than COVID-19”, quotes the expert.
Is this virus dangerous?
Although anyone can be infected with RSV, babies one year old or younger are more likely to develop severe symptoms.
“It is precisely in this population most at risk that cases are monitored because it can, if it degenerates, lead to pneumonia or bronchiolitis”, underlines the specialist in immunology and virology.
Very elderly or immunosuppressed people may also be at increased risk.
Why are we talking about it now?
It is well known: autumn and winter are favorable seasons for viruses. And currently, RSV is the most prevalent virus in Quebec, along with COVID-19.
Although RSV seems “a little early this year”, its virulence remains normal, says Alain Lamarre.
Also, be prepared: Since all health measures related to COVID-19 have been lifted, viruses such as RSV could be “much more present” in Quebec than in recent years, warns virologist Benoit Barbeau.
How to differentiate RSV from COVID-19?
Since the symptoms of COVID-19 and RSV are similar, Alain Lamarre asks for caution.
“We can’t tell by symptoms alone whether it is RSV, COVID-19, flu or cold,” says the researcher, as he calls on Quebecs to show “manners” and to reduce their contact in the event of symptoms.
To avoid contracting the virus, nothing better than washing your hands, remember.
And if you think you have RSV and have a baby at home or around you, be sure to thoroughly wash any surfaces and toys they may be handling.
The infected person should also wear a mask, he concludes.
