Epidemiology - Respiratory Syncytial

Epidemiology

◗ Geographical distribution

Respiratory syncytial virus infection is prevalent worldwide.

◗ Reservoir, source, and transmission of infection

Respiratory syncytial virus is highly contagious. Humans are the only hosts. Infected patients are the source of infection. They continue to excrete viruses for several days or weeks in their respiratory secretions. The infection is transmitted:

·           usually by inhalation of large droplet aerosols, coughed out by the patient during the act of coughing or sneezing.

·           also by direct contact with contaminated hands and fomites.

The virus is highly prevalent in young infants and children, with a peak incidence in 2–8 months’ old infants. Virtually all children are infected by RSV by the age of 4 years. The viral infection is usually seasonal and mostly occurs during winter. Nosocomial infections caused by the virus are frequent in nurs-eries and pediatric ward.