It’s the third week of the mandatory closure of daycare centers to help stop the spread of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). At a press conference, Monday, Department of Health Epidemiologist Adam Konrote gave the latest stats on RSV…
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(Transc.) Konrote: As of this reporting period, we have identified a total of 234 confirmed RSV cases within the territory. Cases remain high, particularly among pediatric patients at LBJ hospital. Over the past reporting period, we recorded 55 new cases and ten hospital admissions. While we continue to monitor hospitalization rates closely, we emphasize the need for heightened community awareness and preventative measures to help slow the spread.
Symptoms of RSV include fever, running nose, and coughing. Konrote urges parents to take these measures to help stop the spread of RSV.
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(Transc.) Konrote: Keep infected children at home and avoid public gatherings until they are symptom free for at least 24 hours. Ensure children receive adequate rest, hydration and medical care as needed. Disinfect commonly touched surfaces in the home, including toys, doorknobs and countertops. Limit close contact between infected children and vulnerable individuals such as infants, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions. If symptoms do worsen, please seek immediate medical attention at your nearest DOH clinic or LBJ hospital.
Joining the Director of Health Dr. Saipale Fuimaono and DoH officials at the press conference was the Deputy Director of the Department of Human and Social Services, Louisa Te’o. There are 49 daycare centers and more than 50% of children being cared at these centers are children under 5, the age group that is vulnerable to RSV.
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Daycare centers will remain closed up to March 7, and, before then, DoH will make another assessment before a decision is made on whether or not daycare centers would be reopened.
