Press Release
Public Health

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Help Slow the Spread of RSV and Other Respiratory Viruses

Kittitas County, WA - 11/22/2022 - The Kittitas County Public Health Department wants residents to take action to slow the spread of Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and other respiratory viruses. According to the Washington State Medical Association, physicians are seeing an unusually steep increase in cases of RSV, especially in children. Please take steps to slow the spread of respiratory viruses:

• Stay home if you are sick. If your child is showing symptoms like fever, cough, difficulty breathing, congestion, runny now, or sore throat, do not send them to school.
• Get tested for RSV, influenza, and COVID-19 if you have symptoms.
• Get vaccinated for influenza and COVID-19.  Everyone 6 months and older who is able should be vaccinated for influenza and COVID-19.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, and be careful not to touch your eyes, nose, and mouth. RSV is highly transmittable through touching infected surfaces. Disinfect high-touch surfaces in your home frequently. Cover your mouth and nose when sneezing, preferably with a tissue or the inside of your elbow.

 
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), RSV, is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Most people recover in a week or two, but RSV can be serious, especially for infants and older adults. RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lung) and pneumonia (infection of the lungs) in children younger than 1 year of age in the United States.
 
The CDC recently issued a health alert due to a surge in pediatric respiratory disease and information about hospital capacity.  Capacity in Western Washington is strained, which affects patient transfers and access in other parts of Washington.  Emergency room and Intensive Care Unit crowding for pediatrics is the most concerning trend, according to the CDC.
 
Information for parents/caregivers for children can be found via www.seattlechildrens.org with a list of searchable conditions. The American Academy of Pediatrics has a website at https://healthychildren.org/. Information about flu prevention can be found at KnockOutFlu.org.  Additional information can also be found at www.cdc.gov and www.doh.wa.gov. Please consult with your medical provider about testing for RSV or influenza.
 

• Help Slow the Spread of RSV and Other Respiratory Viruses.pdf

Kittitas County, from the Cascades to the Columbia, and online at http://www.co.kittitas.wa.us

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Contact: Kasey Knutson, Public Information Officer, 509-962-7515