Nakhon Ratchasima on medical alert after eight people infected with RSV

“The infection is still at a manageable level, while I have ordered public health officials to visit local communities to explain the disease symptoms, how to protect oneself against it and what to do if an infection was found in the community,” he said.
Meanwhile, Dr Narinrat Pitchayakamin, Nakhon Ratchasima public health officer, added that currently there were 30 patients suspected of contracting RSV who were being monitored at Maharat Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital.
“Most of the suspected cases are children 2-5 years old, including the eight patients who were confirmed to have contracted RSV,” he said. “However, their symptoms are still not serious and they have low risk of spreading the virus to other children, as they have yet to attend any schools or nurseries.
“There is a rumour circulating in social media that the RSV situation in the province is escalating and the hospitals are at full capacity, with calls to announce a lockdown of schools and nurseries immediately,” he added. “We urge people not to panic because of this rumour, as Maharat Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital is still capable of treating additional RSV patients, while there is still no report of infections from schools or nurseries.”
Narinrat explained that RSV is a virus that causes respiratory tract infections and is commonly found among children under five years and those aged above 65.
“The virus usually spreads around the end of the rainy season and the beginning of the cold season. It can enter the body via conjunctiva, nose, mouth or via hand contact,” he said. “Children with underlying heart and lung problems might suffer breathing problems if they contract RSV and might require hospitalisation and even a ventilator to reduce distress.
“Parent can help reduce the risk of their children contracting RSV by keeping them healthy during the cold weather, drink lots of water, have them wash their hands frequently, as well as sanitise their houses regularly,” he said. “It is also advisable to wear sanitary face masks when entering public or crowded places and avoid sharing personal items such as cups, spoons and bowls with others.”