The virus has flu-like symptoms but it’s completely different. And officials say the way to prevent it is good hygiene. Hand-washing is the best line of defense.
Parents and the elderly are being put on high alert. The contagious respiratory syncytial virus, better known as RSV, is making the rounds in alarming numbers in Lee County.
According to Diane Holm, a spokeswoman with the Lee County Health Department, We have discovered that there were very high numbers of RSV, unusually high.
Holm says 52 people contracted the disease last week. The highest number of cases was four weeks ago, when there were 65.
“We got calls, the public called us, and wanted to know what was going on with the flu that they were getting sick,” added Holm.
Holm says there’s no vaccine for RSV. It’s especially dangerous to children younger than two years old and anyone with respiratory problems.
According to Lee County Health Department the virus can be severe if it escalates to pneumonia. And they’re keeping an eye out as cases of RSV spread.