• In Saudi Arabia, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is the most common cause of acute lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) in infants, and a major cause of admission to hospital[1].
  • 97.4% of acute respiratory tract infections in children are associated with RSV.
  • The virus is widespread during rainy seasons and winter, starting from October to March, and sometimes can last until April. 

RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA – This Prematurity Awareness Month, Dr Adel Bin Salem Al Harbi, President of the Saudi Pediatric Pulmonology Association (SPPA), discusses the urgent need for more awareness about Respiratory Syncytial Virus in Saudi Arabia during the winter months.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is the main cause of respiratory illnesses in children. In Saudi Arabia, the virus is widespread during rainy seasons and winter, starting from October to March, and sometimes can last until April. RSV is a common virus that infects the respiratory tract of most children before their second birthday. For most babies and young children, the infection causes nothing more than a cold. However, there are certain groups of the pediatric population where it can be severe and life-threatening.

“People at risk of having severe, and sometimes life-threatening, RSV infections include: newborn premature babies, children with heart or lung disease and children with weakened immune systems, like those undergoing chemotherapy or organ transplantation. RSV is the most common cause of pneumonia or bronchiolitis in infants,” explains Dr Adel Bin Salem Al Harbi.

Respiratory syncytial virus enters the body through the eyes, nose, or mouth, and spreads easily through the air in the form of drops that can infect the respiratory tract.

“You or your child can catch the virus if an infected person coughs or sneezes near you,” explains Dr Adel Bin Salem Al Harbi. “The virus is also transmitted to others through direct contact, such as a handshake. The virus can live for hours on solid objects, such as rooftops, stair rails, and toys. It is extremely contagious, which is why increased awareness across the Kingdom is essential. You should wash your hands after touching something contaminated or it could cause the virus to spread. Also, if you have a cold, you should reduce contact with newborn babies and keep at a distance, where possible.”

Recognizing the dangers of the disease, a scientific committee composed of Saudi specialists from multispecialty medical disciplines was formed. Last year, the committee issued national guidelines, called SIBRO (Saudi Initiative of Bronchiolitis Diagnosis, Management and Prevention). SIBRO outlines best practice in managing bronchiolitis in children, as well as information on its diagnosis, treatment and prevention methods. It also includes precautions to prevent RSV as this is the most common cause of bronchiolitis.  

Dr Adel Bin Salem Al Harbi explains that there is safe and available preventive treatment available that can help protect some children who are at high risk of serious complications resulting from RSV available in hospitals across the Kingdom. For advice, please contact your local healthcare professional.

[1] https://www.smj.org.sa/index.php/smj/article/download/smj.2018.12.23355/11116 

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