children s health issues
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Infection and Human Metapneumovirus Infection
Introduction
Respiratory syncytial virus infection and human metapneumovirus infection cause upper and sometimes lower respiratory tract infections. Respiratory syncytial virus is a very common cause of respiratory infections in infants and young children. Human metapneumovirus is similar to respiratory syncytial virus but is a separate virus. Typical symptoms include a runny nose, fever, cough, and wheezing, and a severe infection can lead to respiratory distress. The diagnosis is based on symptoms and their occurrence at expected times of year. Oxygen is given as needed. Nirsevimab(orpalivizumabifnirsevimabis not available) is given to appropriate children to prevent respiratory syncytial virus infection. 