RSV is the predominant non-influenza virus in Iowa currently. According to the Iowa Department of Public Health, last week there were 221 cases of RSV reported at surveillance sites. RSV stands for Respiratory Syncytial Virus, and is a common respiratory virus according to the CDC that causes mild, cold-like symptoms in healthy people but can become serious for infants and older adults. Washington County Public Health Director Danielle Pettit-Majewski shares what it may look like in infants, “For kiddos, you know, if they’re very young you may only see irritability, decreased activity, and breathing difficulties.”

It has been diagnosed in Washington County. There is not a vaccine for RSV. Pettit-Majewski encourages people to avoid kissing or touching babies who are not their own, and to wash your hands frequently and stay home when you’re sick to avoid spreading illness.