R.S.V. Strains California Hospitals

The rates of respiratory syncytial virus, or R.S.V., is surging and rates of children falling ill are significantly higher than usual across the United States.

Dr. Tami Hendriksz, a pediatrician and the dean of Touro University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine in Vallejo, said, “We still haven’t seen the top of this peak yet.” Anyone can catch this virus, but it is especially harmful to infants and toddlers, as well as older adults.

Rates of R.S.V. and hospitalizations in California are the highest they have been in recent years, which matches recent spikes in coronavirus and flu cases in the state. Health professionals are suspecting that R.S.V. is having a much larger impact on children this year because young children have been protected by social distancing guidelines, and this is the first time they are being exposed to the illness.

There is no available vaccine for R.S.V., so doctors are urging parents and families to be mindful and protect their children.

I think this article is news worthy. Especially during the holiday season, I think it is important for families to know that their children may be at higher risk for illness this year. I think that is important to keep in mind in a season where many family gatherings occur. The article was well-organized and easy to follow, and was a quick read, which was perfect for presenting this type of information. The article held my attention and I was able to read through the entire piece.