Surge in children with respiratory virus

Hull is facing a surge in respiratory infections in children, a doctor said.

Dr Kavitha Tharian, a consultant in paediatrics at Hull Royal infirmary, said emergency teams were seeing a rise in children being admitted with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and other respiratory infections.

Figures from NHS England show emergency hospital admissions for children under the age of 10 increase significantly during winter, with more than 30,000 admitted each month with respiratory illnesses such as bronchiolitis and RSV.

Tharian said: "The most important step a parent can take is ensuring their child is vaccinated, including the annual flu vaccine if they're eligible."

Symptoms of RSV include breathing difficulties and making unusual noises when breathing, drowsiness, fewer wet nappies, a dry mouth or sunken eyes.

Tharian advised pregnant women to get vaccinated against RSV, which reduces the risk of their baby developing a severe infection in the first six months after they are born.

She added: "Good hygiene is also really important to protect your child from catching or spreading infection so make sure they wash their hands with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing, and before meals and after going to the toilet.

"Toys and surfaces should also be cleaned regularly to reduce germs spreading."

• Layer clothing to keep children warm outside, including hats and gloves on colder days

• Keep rooms at a comfortable temperature, about 18C for sleeping, but ventilate regularly when children are not in the room to reduce the risk of respiratory infections

• Consult NHS 111 or ask your GP for guidance if your child becomes unwell, particularly if they have breathing difficulties, are not feeding or are unusually sleepy

• Seek immediate medical attention if your child is struggling to breathe or showing other signs of possible RSV or another respiratory infection

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