The time for illnesses like the flu and RSV is here and throughout the next few months, Utahns need to be more aware of sickness.  

Every Fall and Winter there are people who get sick because Covid, flu and RSV run rampant during this time. It might just be the cold weather but for most healthy adults it's no big deal.  

However, for premature infants, mothers and those under two years of age with lung or heart disease, these illnesses can be fatal. Especially RSV or Respiratory Syncytial Virus.  

October is National RSV Awareness Month so it's the perfect time for Utahns to take extra care around younger family members and recognize the danger that RSV can bring.  

The Centers for Disease Control said that 33% of eligible pregnant women took the RSV vaccination during the 2023-2024 season. 56% of infants who received some sort of vaccination were protected from RSV. The CDC concluded that the vaccine helps prevent “severe RSV disease”.  

So, if it's appropriate and you’ve talked to a doctor, it may be time to look at getting the RSV vaccination for your little one or if you are pregnant.  

Some Signs of RSV: 

  • Trouble breathing 
  • Cough that is producing colored mucus 
  • Lethargy or being upset 
  • Refusal to eat 
  • Dehydration 

Every year, children under five in the U.S. become the most susceptible demographic for RSV. NBC News said that there are roughly 300 deaths for children under five caused by RSV per year. It also causes up to 80,000 hospitalizations.  

 

Covid-19 At Home Test Kits

Free Covid-19 test kits from the government.

Gallery Credit: Getty Images

 

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