Handling RSV in Child Care Settings
Tips for minimizing transmission and keeping children healthy
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) refers to a viral disease that targets the respiratory system. Although people of any age can get RSV, it mainly affects children. In fact, most individuals are infected by age 2, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Symptoms of RSV may vary, but babies and younger children are particularly vulnerable to experiencing more serious complications. In fact, the National Institutes of Health reported that RSV is the leading cause of hospitalization among infants.
As an employee who works in child care, it’s crucial for you to have a clear understanding of RSV and ways to reduce transmission. Read on for more information on RSV, how to help prevent it and when to exclude infected children from child care settings.
Overview of RSV
RSV outbreaks generally occur in the winter and spring, peaking between the months of November and April. According to the CDC, this disease can spread from an infected person coughing or sneezing; an individual getting virus droplets in their eyes, nose or mouth; an individual touching a contaminated item or surface (e.g., a doorknob or table); or an individual having direct contact (e.g., touching or kissing) with an infected person.
Once an individual is infected with RSV, they are usually contagious for three to eight days (sometimes before showing symptoms) and start displaying symptoms within four to six days. Symptoms may last anywhere from a few days to several weeks.
Common indicators of an RSV infection include cold-like symptoms, such as runny nose, coughing, fever, sneezing, wheezing and a decrease in appetite. Such symptoms may occur in stages rather than all at once. As it pertains to older children and adults, these symptoms often resolve on their own without additional medical assistance.
On the other hand, babies and younger children—particularly those who were born prematurely or have underlying diseases or conditions—may display more severe RSV symptoms, including breathing difficulties and pneumonia. These symptoms can become life-threatening and may require advanced medical care (e.g., oxygen therapy).
RSV Prevention
Consider the following best practices to help prevent the spread of RSV when working in child care settings:
- Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue and wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds at a time. Encourage co-workers and children under your care to do the same.
- Dispose of tissues containing respiratory secretions immediately after use.
- Refrain from hugging or shaking hands with co-workers, children and their parents.
- Prohibit children from sharing cups, glasses or eating utensils.
- Clean and disinfect any commonly touched surfaces and items (e.g., countertops and toys) on a routine basis, especially following contact with ill co-workers or children.
Excluding Infected Children From Care Settings
Because individuals infected with RSV are often contagious before symptoms even arise, excluding children who simply display signs of the common cold from care likely won’t minimize disease transmission. However, once it has been confirmed that a child has RSV, it’s best to exclude them from child care settings until they no longer have a fever and are able to engage in their normal routine and activities.
Conclusion
RSV is a common concern in child care settings that requires proper prevention and mitigation measures. By following this guidance, you can help keep children under your care happy and healthy.
Consult your supervisor for additional workplace safety resources.