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As winter settles in Australia, the country finds itself grappling with a unique challenge—a triple threat virus. The convergence of the flu, COVID-19 and the highly contagious Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) has led to a surge in respiratory illnesses across the nation. With some states experiencing their worst flu seasons in decades, the added burden of RSV has health experts urging Australians to remain vigilant and get tested to protect themselves. This article highlights the impact of RSV, its symptoms, and the importance of a rapid test capable of detecting all three viruses.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus, more commonly known as RSV, has emerged as a significant concern during Australia's winter season. Typically circulating during this time, much like the flu, RSV has seen an alarming increase in reported cases compared to the previous year.
According to the Department of Health and Aged Care, some states are witnessing up to ten times the number of RSV cases, adding to the existing burden of influenza. Reports indicate that Queensland is already grappling with its worst flu season in decades, putting the entire country on track for a similarly severe influenza season as 2019—the largest on record in Australia.
Understanding RSV and its impact
RSV primarily affects young children, with most experiencing at least one infection before they turn two. Unfortunately, there is no cure or vaccine available for RSV, making it a common cause of hospitalisations among children during winter months in various parts of the world, including Australia.
The virus spreads easily among individuals through coughs and sneezes and can infect the airways and lungs. Common symptoms include a runny nose, cough, reduced feeding, and fever. While most people recover within a week or two, complications such as wheezing and breathing difficulties can arise, potentially leading to pneumonia.
Although it resembles a mild cold, the susceptibility of infants and older adults to severe infections is a concerning aspect of RSV. Infants in their first year of life are more vulnerable due to smaller airways and lack of immunity from previous exposures. As a result, RSV is recognised as a major cause of lung infections in children, commonly causing bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lung).
According to the WHO, RSV is also increasingly being recognised as a significant pathogen in older adults, leading to an increase in hospitalisation rates among those aged 65 years and over.1
Similar symptoms, testing challenges
One of the challenges posed by the combination of the flu, COVID-19, and RSV is the overlap in symptoms, making it difficult to differentiate between the viruses. Symptoms such as cough, runny nose, and fever are common to all three illnesses.
As RSV spreads across Australia in record numbers, this year's wave of respiratory illnesses is predicted to be the worst in several years, emphasising the need for testing and proper identification of the virus causing the symptoms. This is particularly important as the illnesses all pose a particular risk to children and immunocompromised adults.
2San spokesperson Carson Lee said: “As Australia battles through the winter season, the triple threat virus comprising the flu, COVID-19, and RSV poses significant challenges to public health. The surge in respiratory illnesses, especially RSV cases, has raised concerns, particularly among children and immunocompromised adults.
“With symptoms overlapping across these viruses, accurate testing becomes crucial in identifying the specific virus causing the symptoms and taking appropriate measures.”
Combatting the spread and empowering individuals
RSV causes respiratory infections in both children and adults. But unlike the coronavirus, children are also more susceptible to RSV infection than adults, which means RSV is more readily spread in places such as daycare centres, kindergarten and school.
A new TGA-approved rapid antigen test now includes the highly contagious RSV among the list of viruses Australians can self-test for using a single swab. The simple to use test is the first of its kind, accurately diagnosing three different viruses, with results in just 15 minutes.
The cutting-edge diagnostic solution empowers individuals to take control of their health by offering unparalleled convenience, sensitivity, and accuracy in detecting COVID-19, Influenzas A and B, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) in the comfort of their homes.
Carson adds: “Feeling unwell, exhibiting symptoms, or coming into contact with someone who may have these viruses can be a cause for concern. By utilising the Triple Combo Rapid Antigen Test, individuals can take proactive measures to protect themselves and their communities. It offers a valuable tool for controlling the spread of these viruses during the winter season.”
For further information on The RSV, Flu A/B, and Covid Rapid Antigen Test please contact sales.au@2san.com
