Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes various infections of the lung region and the respiratory tract. The virus itself is not generally harmful and is similar to the symptoms of a cold. RSV becomes severe when it attacks infants and children who may have underlying health problems or illnesses. When small children are grouped together in a central location, such as a daycare center, the risk for contracting RSV increases. Children share items and engage in hands-on activities that may allow them to contract the virus and get sick. Knowing the ways to eliminate RSV in a daycare center will keep kids and their caregivers healthy.
Recognizing Symptoms
One of the most important keys in eliminating RSV in a daycare is to know what signs and symptoms to look for in a child or adult. Some of the most common symptoms include runny or stuffy nose, general malaise, headache, fever, cough, and sore or irritated throat. If symptoms progress, the fever can rise, lungs can become infected and fill with fluid. This can cause wheezing or rapid, difficult breathing. In severe cases, the skin may take on a bluish hue---especially on the fingertips. This could be due to cyanosis or lack of oxygen. A lack of appetite and overall irritability may also be an indication of RSV.
Hand-Washing Techniques
Using proper hand-washing techniques will help eliminate the spread of the RSV virus in daycare centers, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Making sure all adults and children wash their hands frequently. Teach children how to properly wash their hands. Turn on water. Begin by wetting hands and applying a quarter-sized amount of soap. Create a lather by rubbing hands together. Make sure to scrub under fingernails and rub fingers, palms and wrists thoroughly. Grab a clean paper towel and dry hands thoroughly. Grab another paper towel and shut off the sink. Having a sanitizer that contains a germicide or alcohol base will help combat germs and the spread of the virus. The Mayo Clinic advises against using antibacterial soaps, as they may lead to more resistant bacteria in the future.
Prevention
Clean surfaces with a solution of 1/2 cup of bleach to 1 gallon of water. Surfaces such as countertops, garbage cans, toilets, door handles, toys, railings, chairs and bathroom surfaces should be cleaned daily or as often as a sick child uses the area. Make sure kids don't share glasses or eating utensils, advises the CDC.
Medical Treatment
If a child has been diagnosed with RSV, she should stay home from daycare until she is approved to return by her physician. Because RSV is a virus, there is generally no prescription medicine that will help with disease, unless the RSV has developed into an infection. At this point, a doctor may hospitalize the child and place her on oxygen or a breathing machine. For mild cases of RSV, over-the-counter medicine such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be used.
Avoid Complications
When kids begin getting sick in a daycare center it is wise to treat the illness to avoid further complications. If a child at the daycare center is suspected of having RSV, making sure his parents are contacted and informed as soon as possible is a wise choice. Keeping the child away from other children if possible will help prevent the spread of the virus.
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