While there was no drop in the number of RSV cases in the two weeks that daycare centers were closed, health authorities say the closure prevented a surge in numbers.
Head of the Pediatric Department at the LBJ Hospital, Dr. Maria Guyapa said this outbreak is different from the one last year in that after two weeks of daycare center closures the number of positive cases went down.
Another difference is that a lot more babies are being admitted with RSV and needing air support.
She said the LBJ Hospital has enough Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (C-PAP) machines to take care of admissions however, they are lacking nurses.
As a result of the nurse shortage, the new pediatric ward which has been ready for opening for some weeks is still not in use.
Meanwhile, the maternity ward which is being used for pediatric admissions is full.
Clinical Director at DOH, Dr. Elizabeth Lauvao, says DOH nurses are helping staff the LBJ Hospital at this time.
DOH Epidemiologist Scott Anesi explained at a joint press conference of DOH and LBJ Hospital this morning, why they’re recommending to keep daycare centers closed for another two weeks.
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Director of Human and Social Services Muavaefaatasi John Suisala has announced that all daycare centers will remain closed. The public will be informed once there’s a change.
