The director of the hospital, Álvaro Galiana, highlights the increasing number of respiratory infections in children
06/26/2023, 09:49
Photo: ANDREJ IVANOV/AFP photos
Editorial El País
The number of respiratory diseases in children is on the rise, resulting in an increased number of hospital and ICU admissions. According to Álvaro Galiana, the director of Pereira Rossell hospital, there are currently “40 or 50 children admitted simultaneously for this.”
Galiana acknowledges that it is difficult to determine the exact cause of the increase in cases, which have been steadily rising since April and May. However, he points out that there has been a significant surge in cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), the main culprit behind bronchitis.
In children over two years old, RSV manifests as mild viral symptoms, but in infants under one year old, it can lead to severe diseases requiring hospitalization and even intubation in critical cases, as explained by the specialist in an interview with Desayunos Informales (Channel 12).
While Uruguay’s overall health situation is not dire, and no child has been left uncared for at Pereira Rossell, waiting times may be affected due to the increase in infections.
Regarding the importance of influenza vaccination, the pediatrician emphasizes that “the flu is not to be taken lightly.” Unlike common respiratory viruses, the flu causes symptoms such as headaches, fever, and muscle pain. In babies, it can lead to vomiting and high fever. Galiana strongly recommends influenza vaccination for everyone aged six months and above.
To receive the anti-flu vaccine, individuals only need to present their identity card or passport. However, children and pregnant women are required to bring their vaccination cards to ensure they are up to date with the certified vaccination schedule. If not, they will receive the necessary vaccines in addition to the flu shot.
The flu vaccination campaign is free of charge and available at public and private vaccination centers throughout the country, without the need for an appointment.
Currently, the majority of children admitted to the hospital are diagnosed with RSV or influenza (A or B). In the case of influenza, it can lead to pneumonia, severe pneumonias, and even meningococcal meningitis. This highlights the importance of vaccination. On a positive note, there are currently no COVID-19 cases at the hospital.
As preventive measures, it is recommended to frequently wash hands, clean mucus, and prevent close contact between school-age children (especially those aged 2 to 5) and infants to minimize the spread of respiratory diseases. If a child falls ill, it is advised to stay at home to avoid further contagion.
In response to recent statements made by the mayor of Montevideo, Carolina Cosse, regarding the potential risks of consuming tap water with elevated levels of trihalomethanes (THM) for pregnant women and children, Galiana emphasizes that while there is concern, there is also a profound lack of knowledge on the subject.
“There is no evidence confirming real toxicity. However, this does not mean it cannot be toxic,” stated Galiana, the director of Pereira Rossell.
“To obtain evidence, a population must be evaluated over the long term, and we cannot expose children to this for years. We do not practice experimental medicine,” he added.
“The people I have consulted lack sufficient information. It is advisable to avoid it, but there is no evidence, and I don’t believe there will be any,” he concluded.
The director of Pereira Rossell hospital in Uruguay, Álvaro Galiana, has highlighted the increasing number of respiratory infections in children, leading to more hospital and ICU admissions. Galiana attributes the rise in cases to the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which primarily causes bronchitis. In infants under one year old, RSV can lead to severe diseases requiring hospitalization and even intubation. Galiana stresses the importance of influenza vaccination, noting that the flu should not be taken lightly, especially in babies who can experience vomiting and high fever. He strongly recommends influenza vaccination for everyone aged six months and above. Despite the increase in infections, no child has been left uncared for at Pereira Rossell, but waiting times may be affected.
What measures is Pereira Rossell Hospital taking to address the increasing number of respiratory infections in children, particularly those caused by RSV?
– Enhancing infection control measures: Pereira Rossell Hospital is implementing strict infection control protocols to minimize the spread of respiratory infections. This includes proper hand hygiene, wearing of personal protective equipment, regular cleaning and disinfection of surfaces, and isolating infected patients.
– Promoting vaccination: The hospital is actively advocating for the importance of vaccination, especially for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in children. Vaccination is a key preventive measure against RSV and can significantly reduce the severity of the infection.
– Increasing capacity and resources: Pereira Rossell Hospital is increasing its capacity to handle the growing number of respiratory infection cases. This includes allocating more healthcare professionals, beds, and equipment to effectively treat and manage the patients.
– Improved diagnostic and treatment methods: The hospital is continuously updating its diagnostic and treatment protocols to ensure accurate and timely identification and management of respiratory infections in children, including those caused by RSV. This may involve utilizing new diagnostic tools, providing targeted therapies, and monitoring patients closely.
– Public awareness and education: Pereira Rossell Hospital is actively engaged in public awareness campaigns to educate parents, caregivers, and the general population about respiratory infections, their prevention, and early recognition of symptoms. This includes promoting respiratory hygiene practices, recognizing warning signs, and seeking timely medical attention.
– Collaboration and research: The hospital is collaborating with other healthcare institutions, research organizations, and relevant stakeholders to share knowledge, conduct research, and develop innovative strategies to address the rising number of respiratory infections in children. This collaboration aims to improve prevention, diagnosis, and treatment modalities for these infections.
– Monitoring and surveillance: Pereira Rossell Hospital is closely monitoring the incidence and prevalence of respiratory infections, including RSV, in children. This data helps to understand the trends, identify high-risk populations, and implement necessary preventive measures.
2 comments
The rise in influenza cases is concerning but not surprising. Vaccination remains of utmost importance in preventing the spread of this potentially deadly virus. Trust the expertise of hospital directors and get vaccinated for the health and safety of yourself and others.
This article highlights the concerning rise in influenza cases and emphasizes the criticality of vaccination, as emphasized by a hospital director. Vaccination remains our best defense against this highly contagious and potentially dangerous virus. Let’s prioritize our health and protect our communities by getting vaccinated.