Parents Unite to Combat RSV Threat with Awareness Campaign

A recent campaign in Singapore has brought families together to raise awareness about the serious health risks posed by the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). During a community event held from October 10 to October 12, 2023, parents and caregivers contributed to a striking mural made of magnetic hands at Serangoon NEX. This 2m x 5.1m installation not only served as a visual representation of their commitment to protecting infants’ respiratory health but also broke the record for the largest hand pledge mural in Singapore, with over 1,000 pledges.

The initiative emerged from personal experiences that highlighted the urgent need for awareness. Dr. Adrian Tan, founder and medical director of Babysteps Medical, recalled a troubling case where a seemingly healthy infant displayed minimal signs of illness. After a routine check-up, the child was found to have rapid breathing, which led to a diagnosis of RSV. The baby required hospitalisation for oxygen support and tube feeding, demonstrating how quickly RSV can escalate, even in otherwise healthy infants.

RSV is a common infection that affects about two in three infants worldwide before their first birthday. It is the leading cause of acute lower respiratory tract infections and hospitalisation among infants in Singapore. Unlike seasonal viruses such as influenza, RSV can circulate year-round, complicating recognition and response.

Symptoms often appear four to seven days after exposure and may include a runny nose, fever, fatigue, and sore throat. According to Dr. Tan, these symptoms can easily be mistaken for a cold or flu. He explained, “Like other conditions, RSV spreads through droplets and contact with contaminated surfaces.” A laboratory test, typically a nasal swab, can confirm the presence of the virus and guide treatment.

Parents should be vigilant, as RSV symptoms can deteriorate rapidly. Dr. Tan emphasized the importance of early medical intervention: “There’s only a small window for effective treatment.” With timely care, most children recover without needing hospitalisation. However, untreated RSV can lead to severe complications, including shortness of breath and bronchospasms, which can threaten a child’s life.

Recognising RSV is just the first step; understanding its potential complications is equally important. Dr. Tan noted that approximately 80% of infants hospitalised with RSV are typically healthy, full-term babies. The infection commonly begins in the upper respiratory tract before moving to the lower respiratory tract, potentially causing pneumonia or bronchiolitis. These conditions can have lasting effects, increasing the risk of asthma or recurrent wheezing later in childhood.

The financial impact of RSV can also be significant, with parents in Singapore covering about 63% of hospitalisation costs, adding to the emotional strain of dealing with a sick child.

To mitigate the risks of RSV, parents are encouraged to maintain good hygiene practices. Dr. Tan advised frequent handwashing and avoiding contact with the face, especially during flu season. Parents should also keep sick children at home until they recover and consult healthcare professionals about preventive measures, including immunisation options.

Awareness is crucial in the fight against RSV. Dr. Tan stressed, “RSV is a serious threat. With greater understanding, we can better safeguard the health of all infants.” Parents are encouraged to speak to their paediatricians for further information on preventing RSV and to visit platforms like Together Against RSV for additional resources.

By fostering a community of awareness, families can work together to protect the youngest and most vulnerable members of society from the dangers of RSV.