Download Factsheet on Conjunctivitis - Cumbria Partnership NHS Foundation

For further advice please contact
Cumbria and Lancashire Public Health England Centre
Telephone 0844 225 0602
Reviewed: January 2014
Next review date: January 2016
Factsheet on bronchiolitis (Respiratory
Syncytial Virus)
What is bronchiolitis?
Bronchiolitis is swelling of the walls of tiny tubes (bronchioles) in the lungs through
which air passes when we breathe. The swelling results in a narrowing of these tiny
tubes, reducing the amount of air able to enter into the lung.
Bronchiolitis is usually caused by Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). RSV is found
all over the world, causing seasonal infection in infants and young children,
particularly in the winter months in the UK.
The virus thrives in the human nose and throat. It is quickly spread from person to
person with symptoms appearing within days of coming into contact with an affected
person.
The virus can survive on hard surfaces or objects for up to 24 hours.
The infected person is usually infectious for about a week starting from just before
their symptoms start.
The virus spreads by direct person to person contact and droplets carried on the air.
What causes bronchiolitis?
Bronchiolitis is mainly caused by Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).
Who does it affect?
Bronchiolitis can affect those with reduced immunity and the elderly; however, it is
most common in babies and children up to 2 years of age.
Babies with heart and lung disease, premature babies and babies under 6 weeks of
age are at risk of more severe disease.
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What are the Symptoms?
The most common symptoms are:
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cough
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fever
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rhinitis (runny eyes and nose)
Other symptoms may include:
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wheezing
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shortness of breath
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poor feeding
Do you need any treatment?
The treatment received will depend upon the severity of the symptoms.
In some situations hospital treatment may be required.
Preventing the Spread of bronchiolitis
The risk of spreading the infection can be reduced by
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covering your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing – remember
CATCH IT, BIN IT, KILL IT.
using disposable tissues, rather than cotton handkerchiefs
washing your hands after touching your nose or mouth
washing your hands before and after feeding a baby or child
washing and drying eating utensils after use
ensure good cleaning of the environment, care equipment and toys with hot
soapy water.
This factsheet has been reviewed by a multi-disciplinary team from the North West.
Further advice may be obtained from Cumbria and Lancashire Public Health England
Centre. Telephone 0844 225 0602
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