Masking recommendation returns in Worcester as RSV threat rises

Masks may be coming back in force in Worcester, already on alert to the threat of a “tripledemic” — surging cases of COVID-19, the flu and, notably, RSV.

“As flu season begins, Worcester is also experiencing an uncharacteristic rise in cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV),” the city said in an alert this weekend. “Combined with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, City health officials are urging residents to take precautions to stay safe, avoid surges, and prevent further strain on local and regional hospital systems.”

Which means washing hands, staying home when sick and pulling out the mask again, especially for young children.

RSV, the newer threat being warned against, is a common virus that usually causes mild cold-like symptoms and usually lasts up to two weeks.

However, the Worcester release noted, “infants, young children, older adults, and those with chronic health conditions and weakened immune systems are susceptible to serious illness, including bronchitis and pneumonia.”

Because of the isolation, masking and other pandemic precautions of the last few years many young children don’t have a built up immune response to the virus. Which, doctors are warning, means the outbreak this year may cause problems.

Across the country, major hospitals are already reaching capacity as RSV cases pack pediatric wards, and some counties, most recently Orange County, have already declared a RSV public health emergency.

Close to one in every 500 babies 6 months and younger was hospitalized with R.S.V. since the beginning of October, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates, though the agency notes the lack of testing means the true number may be much higher.

“Like so many other pediatric hospitals across the country, Boston Children’s is experiencing high patient volume and significant wait times due to increased levels of seasonal illness, RSV and the ongoing behavioral health crisis,” Boston Children’s Hospital said in a late October release.

The hospital is not yet transferring patients and is reviewing elective procedures as of the release.

There has been preliminary testing for a Pfizer RSV vaccine with positive signs, but there is not vaccine or treatment yet available.

However, doctors do recommend the flu shot, which can prevent some more aggressive symptoms and keep hospital visits lower.

Parents should watch for symptoms, especially in children under 5 years old. RSV may be indicated in infants by difficulty breathing, wheezing and not eating.

Young children should be brought to a doctor if they have cold symptoms and develop a fever, are wheezing, show signs of dehydration or have a quick escalation in coughing or other symptoms, according to KidsHealth.

To keep kids safe, Worcester’s statement emphasized, it’s still highly important to keep up to date on vaccines and boosters to keep hospitals running as smoothly as possible.