Sejong Special Self-Governing City has urged strict infection control and compliance with personal hygiene rules as the number of patients with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection has increased rapidly in the winter. RSV infection is mainly transmitted through respiratory droplets and contact, and caution is required, as infants and young children under the age of 6 account for more than 80% of all patients.
RSV infection initially starts with mild symptoms such as a runny nose and pharyngitis, but if not treated properly, it can lead to serious complications such as acute bronchiolitis or pneumonia. If an infant or young child shows symptoms such as coughing or wheezing, they should visit a medical institution immediately and receive treatment.
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[Korean Today] Postpartum Care Centers and Infant/Toddler Facilities Establish Infection Prevention Guidelines © Reporter Lee Yoon-joo |
According to the sample surveillance report from Sejong City, the number of RSV infection patients was 21 in November last year, but it increased 3.3 times to 71 in December. This increase is continuing nationwide, raising awareness.
In particular, thorough preventive measures are required in postpartum care centers and childcare facilities for infants and toddlers. ▲ Hand hygiene before and after contact with newborns and infants ▲ Wearing personal protective equipment such as masks, gloves, and gowns ▲ Regular ventilation, etc. In the event of an admission of a patient, it is essential to immediately report to the Sejong City Health Center to prevent further spread.
Kim Soo-young, head of the Sejong City Health Center, emphasized, “In order to prevent respiratory infections, we must make cough etiquette and personal hygiene rules, such as washing our hands, a part of our daily lives,” and “If you develop a fever or respiratory symptoms, please seek medical attention at a hospital as soon as possible.”
RSV infection is spreading mainly among infants and young children, and thorough management in group facilities and careful observation by parents are most important. Small efforts to follow prevention rules can be a great force in preventing the spread of infectious diseases in winter.
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