When to Test for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
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/ Categories: WELLNESS, 2022

When to Test for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common virus that infects children and some adults. We are experiencing higher levels of RSV in our community, and it is important to understand the expected course of symptoms for adults and children, how to identify patients who are at risk for respiratory complications, and who may benefit from testing.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) considers patients under the age of 2 years to be at the greatest risk of a serious case of RSV. RSV testing is mostly reserved for this age group.

If your young child is experiencing cold-like symptoms, follow the guidance below.

  • Hydrate with formula, breastfeeding, or water, if age appropriate.
  • Clear any nasal drainage and congestion with saline nose drops, bulb syringe, or a nasal aspirator (NoseFrida).
  • Use over-the-counter fever reducers per package instructions for temperatures over 100.3 °F.
  • Monitor for signs of severe illness in young children and infants, including rapid, shallow breathing; periods of not breathing; retractions or “sinking-in” of the spaces between the ribs or below them; flaring or “spreading-out” of the nostrils; or if skin turns blue around the mouth or fingertips.
  • Watch for signs of dehydration, as well, such as poor feeding, reduced wet diapers, dry mouth, reduced energy levels, or uncommon drowsiness.
  • If any of these signs or symptoms develop, please have the infant or child seen by a healthcare provider immediately.

In most cases, RSV causes mild common cold-like symptoms. Neither children nor adults with common cold-like symptoms need testing for a diagnosis. Most RSV infections resolve in 1 – 2 weeks, but the cough can last up to 4 weeks.

For those NOT at high risk, follow the guidance below.

  • Infections of COVID-19 and RSV are very similar and can happen at the same time. Patients with respiratory symptoms should use an at-home rapid antigen test for COVID-19.
  • If you test positive for COVID-19, follow the instructions for isolation as listed on the Vermont Department of Health website.
  • If you suspect you have RSV, stay at home and away from others, rest, increase fluids, and try over-the-counter fever-reducing medications, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen. Most people with this illness will have mild symptoms and will not need medical care. 
  • Testing is not required, as a healthcare provider can reasonably make a diagnosis of RSV, based on an exam, particularly if community levels are high.
  • You can reduce your risk of contracting RSV by avoiding those who are ill and washing your hands consistently.

Crystal Labbe-Hasty, PA, is a physician assistant at SVMC’s Respiratory Evaluation Center/ExpressCare in Bennington. The practice is part of Southwestern Vermont Medical Center and Southwestern Vermont Health Care. 

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Introducing Dr. Amy Freeth

Amy E. Freeth, MD, resumed endocrinology services at SVMC in March 2020. The practice, known as SVMC Endocrinology, is a part of Southwestern Vermont Medical Center (SVMC) and Southwestern Vermont Health Care (SVHC). It replaces the Bennington Osteoporosis Center, where Dr. David Gorson had provided similar services to the community until his retirement in 2019.

How do you describe endocrinology to people who don’t know what it is? The endocrine system is made up of glands that make hormones. These hormones are chemical messengers that travel via the bloodstream to communicate with the cells and organs of the body. Hormones are important for growth, development, mood, metabolism, and reproduction. These glands include the pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, pancreas, adrenal, testes, and ovaries.

Endocrinology is a practice of medicine that specializes in disorders of these systems. Disorders most commonly are related to underactive or overactive function of these glands and require replacement of the hormone or specific treatments such as medications, ablation, or surgery.

Since hormones function in feedback loops and are part of a larger complex functional system that exists in flow with the human body, replacement hormones or treatment of endocrine disorders can be challenging and involve changes to our lifestyles that support the optimal functioning of the body.

What diagnoses are most common among the patients you treat?  Pituitary tumors, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, thyroid cancer, hyperparathyroidism, osteoporosis, diabetes, adrenal insufficiency, Cushing’s disease, primary hyperaldosteronism, pheochromocytoma, obesity, and polycystic ovarian syndrome.

What sorts of treatments do you offer? I offer comprehensive consultation and management of endocrine disorders. I also interpret testing and make treatment plans for endocrine disorders. I also provide interpretation of bone density reports and perform fine needle aspiration biopsies in collaboration with Radiology Associates of Bennington. Technology is increasingly becoming more important in the management of diabetes. Technology includes glucose meters, insulin pumps, and continuous glucose monitoring (sensors). I work with certified diabetes educators to create a team approach to diabetes management. As we develop this new department, we are looking for innovative ways to help people regain and optimize their health. I have training in nutrition counseling and health coaching to help people find their path to good health.

Why is it important for patients who need an endocrinologist see them regularly? Your endocrinologist is part of your health team and has experience and a deep understanding of what is happening within your body to help assess, guide, and co-manage your disorder. There is testing that may need to be done to make sure you are living with optimal hormonal balance. Allowing hormones to run too low or too high can have lasting adverse effects on the body leading to other disease or imbalances.

How do you help protect patients who need to come into the office from infections, like COVID-19? At this time, I am seeing patients via telemedicine and phone visits. This week we are starting to see a portion of our patients in the clinic. Patients can register on the phone and wait in their car until the room is ready. Patients will be screened for fever and should wear a mask. Staff will wear proper protective equipment and follow guidelines for handwashing and cleaning of the rooms.

Since many patients who will likely want to come to the endocrinology clinic will be members of high-risk populations (diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and the elderly), patients will have a choice of the type of visit they have.

Dr. Freeth sees patients 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tuesday - Thursday in Suite 307 of the Medical Office Building located at 140 Hospital Drive in Bennington. For an appointment, call 802-447-4555. The schedule will expand to additional days as needed.

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