A common cold-like respiratory disease spreads rapidly through children and teenagers across Ohio. According to the CDC, RSV or respiratory syncytial virus, is a physically transmitted disease that can affect patients for 1-2 weeks. The most common symptoms are runny nose, loss of appetite, coughing, sneezing, wheezing, and fever. 

   “Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) was discovered in 1956 and has since been recognized as one of the most common causes of childhood illness,” CDC said. “It causes annual outbreaks of respiratory illnesses in all age groups.” 

   According to CNN, if RSV is not properly treated the disease can develop into pneumonia or bronchitis. Hospitals not only across the state but across the country have become overflowed with young children and teenagers. 

   “Nationwide Children’s Hospital, like hospitals across the country, is experiencing high patient volumes due to respiratory viruses and other illnesses, including our Emergency Departments and Urgent Care centers,” Nationwide Children’s Hospital said. 

   As of Oct. 20,COVID cases in Ohio reached a high for the past three weeks. According to the Ohio Department of Health, there have been 2,562 new cases and 26 new hospitalizations. While cases rise, the mortality rates have gone down. In the past week, there were 13 less deaths than the previous week.

   With COVID case numbers on the increase and RSV on the rise, there are ways to stay safe. People should practice good hygiene and wash their hands before they eat and after they come in physical contact with another person. If someone feels sick or has a sick family member, they should stay at home. Seek medical help if needed, but go through a regular physician before a trip to the hospital.