SAN ANTONIO – Taylor Roby Perez shared her experience when her daughter, Isabel, was diagnosed with Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). It was a tumultuous week for her, as she described how quickly Isabel’s condition deteriorated. From being a happy and energetic baby, Isabel suddenly became lethargic and lost her appetite. RSV is initially presented as mild, cold-like symptoms, yet it can be especially dangerous for certain individuals.
According to doctors in San Antonio, RSV cases are currently on the rise as winter approaches. To address this, the CDC issued a health advisory this week, providing guidance to doctors due to the limited supply of nirsevimab, a monoclonal antibody immunization used to combat RSV.
Tarak Patel, a pediatric pulmonologist at Baptist Children’s Hospital, explained that RSV is known to be highly seasonal, particularly in South Texas. However, the shortage of nirsevimab is partly due to production challenges. With the recent approval of the medication, there hasn’t been adequate time to meet the demand and provide enough supply to the public.
At University Health, Jason Bowling, chief hospital epidemiologist, reported a significant increase in RSV cases. Hospital records show a 63% rise in the past week alone. Bowling emphasized that older adults and children under one year old are most vulnerable to severe or complicated RSV cases. He advised practicing proper hand hygiene and avoiding contact with sick individuals as the best protection, along with vaccination and the antibody immunization. However, University Health is also facing a shortage of the antibody immunization.
In a relieving turn of events, Taylor Roby Perez’s daughter was recently discharged from the hospital after a week of care and is now recovering at home. Roby Perez stressed the importance of staying vigilant to the symptoms and acting promptly. Seeing her daughter regain her personality and laughter brought her immense relief.
To learn more about the symptoms of RSV, click here.
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