Using indirect immunofluorescence microscopy, this photomicrograph revealed the presence of the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in an unidentified tissue sample, RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia among infants and children under 1 year of age. (CDC/Dr. Craig Lyerla)
The Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), an extremely contagious virus, can severely affect the lungs and respiratory airways in disabled and older individuals. Maybe you have not heard of the RSV yet, but it has arrived in Montana and has become a health concern.
The RSV symptoms go from mild to severe and last up to two weeks. They include fever, headaches, coughing, sore throat, running nose, congestion, and fatigue.We regret to inform you that no vaccine is available against RSV. To avoid being infected by the RSV, you have to keep social distance and not have contact with anyone infected.
If the RSV infects you, cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your upper shirt sleeve, not your hands. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Avoid close contact, such as kissing, shaking hands, and sharing cups and eating utensils with others.
Stay safe and happy holidays,
LIFTT’s Team
Disclaimer: This information in this post is intended for educational and informative purposes only and are not intended to serve as medical or professional advice. You should always consult your physician or other health care professional regarding your individual healthcare needs
About Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT): LIFTT is a Montana 501(c)3 corporation organized as a Center for Independent Living (CIL). With team members based in Billings, and Glendive, LIFTT provides people with disabilities with programs and services that help empower them to break down the physical, bureaucratic, and cultural barriers that prevent them from being fully independent participants in their lives and communities throughout 18 counties in southeastern and southcentral Montana: Big Horn, Carbon, Carter, Custer, Dawson, Fallon, Garfield, Golden Valley, McCone, Musselshell, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Stillwater, Wibaux, and Yellowstone. For more information, please visit liftt.org or download our mobile app on Apple or Google Play.
