All childcare centers in American Samoa will be temporarily closed starting Wednesday as a precautionary measure following an outbreak of the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) among several children. The decision was made after a significant number of RSV cases were reported, with some requiring intensive medical care. RSV, a contagious respiratory virus, poses a particular risk to infants and older adults.
On Monday, LBJ Hospital recorded 20 admissions of RSV cases, with nine of the patients requiring continuous positive airway pressure (C-PAP) to assist with breathing. The majority of affected individuals were infants below one year old. RSV is known to spread through respiratory droplets expelled during coughing or sneezing, as well as direct contact with contaminated surfaces. The virus can survive on surfaces for extended periods, facilitating transmission.
In most instances, RSV presents as a common respiratory infection with symptoms similar to a cold, such as runny nose, coughing, sneezing, fever, and reduced appetite. Typically, these symptoms subside within one to two weeks. However, infants and young children are susceptible to developing severe respiratory complications like bronchiolitis and pneumonia from RSV infection. Symptoms of severe RSV cases include rapid or labored breathing, wheezing, bluish discoloration of the lips or skin (cyanosis), and dehydration. Premature infants or those with underlying health conditions are at a higher risk of experiencing severe complications.
To address the growing number of RSV cases, the LBJ Hospital has taken proactive steps. The medical facility is inaugurating a new pediatric ward dedicated to isolating and treating children affected by RSV. Dr. Akapusi Ledua, Acting CEO of LBJ Hospital, stressed the importance of containment measures due to the virus’s highly contagious nature. The hospital’s management, in collaboration with the Department of Health, has also recommended the closure of daycare centers to prevent further spread of RSV within the community.
Dr. Ledua urged parents to ensure that children exhibiting signs of RSV receive adequate fluids and remain isolated at home. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is advised to seek medical attention at the hospital. This proactive approach is crucial to minimize the impact of RSV and safeguard the health of children and the wider population.