3-fold spike in respiratory infections among infants, schoolkids in Bengaluru

Bengaluru: Doctors in the city have advised parents to take preventive measures amid significant rise in cases of respiratory infections in infants and young children, with many of them requiring hospitalisation for several days. Hospitals have reported at least threefold increase in number of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza cases this year compared to previous years. According to doctors, incidence of RSV and influenza is generally higher between June and Sept. Common symptoms of RSV include cold, cough, fever, and, in severe cases, breathing difficulties and bronchitis. We are seeing at least five cases daily compared to previous years when we encountered about four to five cases weekly. We see RSV more among kids up to one year and toddlers. Some require care in ICU. Influenza is seen more frequently among toddlers and school-going children," said Dr Sindhu V, consultant, pediatrics & pediatric intensive care, Aster RV Hospital.Dr Rajiv Aggarwal, senior consultant, pediatric intensivist & neonatologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Sarjapur, said, "Children under the age of one or those born preterm require hospitalisation due to risk of developing lower respiratory tract infections. Symptoms among hospitalised patients typically last up to four-five days." "These infections can generally be managed with medications alongside warm fluids and proper hydration," Dr Rajiv said. In severe cases, oxygen support is provided. "For infants presenting with hurried breathing or bronchitis, we administer high-flow nasal oxygen, which is typically the only treatment required," Dr Sindhu said."If oxygen saturation level falls below 90, prompt medical evaluation and treatment are recommended," Dr Rajiv added.Doctors said although the exact cause of spike in infections this year is unclear, erratic and prolonged monsoon conditions could be a contributing factor.Experts believe rise in infections among children might have contributed to a higher rate of illness among adults. "As children attend school, they are more prone to infection and, in many cases, serve as primary carriers. We have observed instances where parents and grandparents became ill after their children were affected first," said Dr Shylaja Shyamsundar, general physician, Bhagwan Mahaveer Jain Hospital.BOX: Precautions and preventionsPractice hand hygiene Keep kids away from symptomatic children, adultsEnsure kids wear mask if they have cough, cold or feverDon't send symptomatic children to schoolGive warm fluids/foods and ensure hydrationMonitor O2 saturation if cough persists for over 3 days