MediHaven

28/06/2025

Understanding RSV: A Patient’s Guide to Respiratory Syncytial Virus
By MediHaven General Practitioner and Medical Centre

What is RSV?
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a highly contagious virus that causes infections of the lungs and respiratory tract. It is one of the most common causes of bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lungs) and pneumonia in infants and young children. While RSV can affect individuals of all ages, it is most severe in:
• Babies under 2 years of age
• Premature infants
• Children with heart or lung conditions
• Elderly adults
• Immunocompromised individuals

How is RSV Spread?
RSV spreads through:
• Droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes
• Direct contact (e.g., kissing a baby who has the virus)
• Surfaces (e.g., touching toys or doorknobs contaminated with the virus)
The virus can survive for several hours on hard surfaces and is most contagious in the early stages when symptoms begin to appear.
Signs and Symptoms of RSV
RSV symptoms typically appear 4–6 days after exposure and include:
• Runny nose
• Decreased appetite
• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Fever
• Wheezing or difficulty breathing
In infants and very young children, RSV may present as irritability, poor feeding, lethargy, or pauses in breathing (apnea).

When to Seek Medical Help
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice:
• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
• Bluish color around the lips or fingernails (cyanosis)
• Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, no tears when crying, fewer wet diapers)
• Extreme fatigue or unresponsiveness
How is RSV Diagnosed?
Doctors can diagnose RSV based on symptoms and a physical examination. In some cases, a nasal swab test, chest X-ray, or oxygen level measurement may be performed, especially in severe or hospitalized cases.

Treatment for RSV
There is no specific cure for RSV, but symptoms are managed with supportive care:
• Hydration: Encourage fluid intake to prevent dehydration
• Fever management: Paracetamol or ibuprofen (avoid aspirin in children)
• Nasal suctioning: Helps infants breathe better
• Oxygen therapy or hospitalization may be needed in severe cases
Antibiotics are not effective unless there is a secondary bacterial infection.
Prevention of RSV
While there is no widely available RSV vaccine for the general population (yet), prevention is crucial:
• Hand hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water
• Avoid sick contacts: Especially for babies and vulnerable individuals
• Clean surfaces regularly
• Don’t smoke around children: Secondhand smoke worsens respiratory symptoms
• Limit daycare exposure during peak RSV season (typically autumn to early spring)
• Wear masks and maintain distance if you are sick
New monoclonal antibody treatments like Nirsevimab are now approved for high-risk infants to prevent severe RSV infections.

RSV in Adults
In adults, RSV symptoms often resemble the common cold, but in the elderly or those with underlying health conditions, it can lead to more serious complications such as pneumonia or exacerbation of asthma or COPD.
Final Thoughts
RSV is a serious but preventable and manageable virus. With rising cases globally, awareness and early intervention are essential—especially for protecting our most vulnerable.
If you or your child experience any concerning symptoms, consult your healthcare provider promptly.

For more information or guidance, please contact your local healthcare provider or visit reputable sources like the WHO or CDC.

07/03/2025

MediHaven is Proud to have won the award for Top 25 Most Popular General Practitioners in Garsfontein, Pretoria East yet again. We continue to strive for excellence in our service to our patients.

29/11/2024

Try one of our IV vitamin therapy drips to boost your mind and body this Black Friday with our promotion!

17/02/2024

MediHaven Influenza Part 2
Prevention

The most effective preventive measure is the annual flu vaccine, designed to protect against the most common influenza viruses expected during the flu season. Additional preventive practices include:

• Regular handwashing.

• Using tissues or the elbow to cover coughs and sneezes.

• Avoiding close contact with sick individuals.

• Staying home when ill.

Statistics

Worldwide, annual influenza epidemics lead to millions of severe illness cases and significant mortality. The World Health Organization estimates up to 650,000 respiratory deaths annually. In the United States, influenza results in up to 45 million illnesses and up to 61,000 deaths annually, as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Conclusion

Influenza continues to pose a significant health challenge globally. Understanding the different virus types, including specific strains such as H1N1, and the available treatments, like Tamiflu, is crucial for effective management and prevention of the flu. Vaccination remains the cornerstone of flu prevention, complemented by antiviral treatments and good hygiene practices. Patients are encouraged to consult their GP or local Doctor for personalized advice and treatment options.

17/02/2024

Understanding Influenza: A MediHaven Patient Guide

Influenza, or the flu, is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses, with the potential to cause mild to severe symptoms and complications. It's essential for patients to be informed about the course of the illness, its symptoms, available treatments, and the types of viruses responsible for outbreaks, including specific strains like H1N1.

Course of Influenza

The typical progression of influenza begins with an incubation period of 1-4 days post-exposure, followed by acute symptoms that last about a week. However, recovery can be prolonged, with cough and fatigue lasting for more than two weeks in some cases.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of influenza include:

• Fever or feeling feverish/chills

• Cough

• Sore throat

• Runny or stuffy nose

• Muscle or body aches

• Headaches

• Fatigue

• Vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children)

Types of Influenza Viruses and Strains

Influenza viruses are classified into four types: A, B, C, and D. Among these, Influenza A and B are responsible for seasonal outbreaks.

• Influenza A viruses are categorized into subtypes based on the hemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N) proteins on their surface. For example:

• H1N1, which caused the 2009 pandemic, is known for its ability to mutate and recombine, leading to new strains that can cause annual flu seasons or pandemics.

• H3N2 is another common subtype that often leads to more severe flu seasons.

• Influenza B viruses are not divided into subtypes but can still vary significantly. They are classified into two lineages: Yamagata and Victoria.

• Influenza C causes mild respiratory illnesses and is not a significant concern for public health.

• Influenza D affects cattle and is not known to infect humans.

Treatment

Treatment options include antiviral medications and supportive care to relieve symptoms. Antiviral drugs, when administered early (within 48 hours of symptom onset), can reduce the severity and duration of the illness. Key antiviral medications include:

• Oseltamivir (Tamiflu): Available in pill or liquid form.

• Zanamivir (Relenza): A powder that is inhaled.

• Peramivir (Rapivab): Administered intravenously.

• Baloxavir marboxil (Xofluza): A pill for individuals aged 12 and older.

Prevention

The most effective preventive measure is the annual flu vaccine, designed to protect against the most common influenza viruses expected during the flu season. Additional preventive practices include:

• Regular handwashing.

• Using tissues or the elbow to cover coughs and sneezes.

• Avoiding close contact with sick individuals.

• Staying home when ill.

Statistics

Worldwide, annual influenza epidemics lead to millions of severe illness cases and significant mortality. The World Health Organization estimates up to 650,000 respiratory deaths annually. In the United States, influenza results in up to 45 million illnesses and up to 61,000 deaths annually, as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Conclusion

Influenza continues to pose a significant health challenge globally. Understanding the different virus types, including specific strains such as H1N1, and the available treatments, like Tamiflu, is crucial for effective management and prevention of the flu. Vaccination remains the cornerstone of flu prevention, complemented by antiviral treatments and good hygiene practices. Patients are encouraged to consult their GP or local Doctor for personalized advice and treatment options.

27/01/2024

27/01/2024

MediHaven is proud to have won the Health4You Top 25 General Practitioners in Garsfontein Pretoria East for 2023.

We are proud to be you local Medical Centre and General Practitioners of choice in the Garsfontein Pretoria East area and strive to continue to improve the service that we offer our patients going forward. We were voted as #1 Most Popular Health And Fitness Service in Garsfontein
#13 Most Popular Health And Fitness Service in Pretoria for 2023.

Whether you are looking for a trusted GP for yourself or your family or for a boost from our range of IV Therapy options to enrich your body to perform at its peak, MediHaven has got all of your needs covered and will stive to proved the very best service to our patients.

Please see our website https://www.medihaven.co.za/ for more information or to book or alternatively give us a call to book your appointment with one of our friendly Doctors.

12/01/2024

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Why Choose MediHaven?

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