Preventing RSV
Fact Sheet PDF 13
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RSV is spread by direct contact (coughing and sneezing),
and indirectly from contaminated hands, tissues, and other articles
soiled by nose and throat discharges.
RSV can survive on environmental surfaces for many hours
and for a half-hour or longer on hands. A person with RSV illness
is usually contagious for 3-8 days, but can be contagious for up to 3-4
weeks.
Because shedding of virus occurs before, during, and after illness,
exclusion from school or child care is generally not useful in controlling the spread of RSV.
The best prevention is to cover the mouth and nose when sneezing or
coughing, thoroughly washing hands regularly, and disinfecting
contaminated surfaces.
Two medications are available for children under age two who are at
high risk for RSV complications. These medications are started
just prior to the onset of RSV season and continue for 4-5 months.
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Prevention Recommendations
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Teach a child to cover his mouth when sneezing and
coughing.
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Dispose of tissues soiled with nose and throat
discharges.
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Disinfect toys and other objects which may become
contaminated with nose and throat discharges.
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Wash hands after contact with soiled tissues/articles
and after contact with nose and throat discharges.
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