Alberta Health Services is asking the public to do their part in minimizing the spread of respiratory illnesses. (Image: Everything GP)

By Tanner Smith

AHS reminding parents about respiratory illnesses during winter months

Nov 3, 2022 | 9:41 AM

EDMONTON, AB – Alberta Health Services (AHS) wants to remind parents about the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and other respiratory illnesses that are common throughout the cold winter months.

Similar to other respiratory viruses like influenza and COVID-19, RSV is spread by direct close contact and it can be transmitted by contaminated surfaces or objects.

RSV symptoms often appear like a common cold but can lead to more serious illnesses like pneumonia and bronchiolitis.

However, AHS says RSV is not considered a risk to the general public.

While there is no vaccine for RSV, measures like washing hands frequently and thoroughly, covering coughs and sneezes, and wiping down any surfaces that may have been contaminated can help reduce the spread of the disease.

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AHS has released a list of tips to help keep everyone’s family happy and healthy:

• To prevent the spread of any illness, wash your hands frequently using soap and warm water.
• Do not share items that come in contact with the mouth, including water bottles, drinks, or eating utensils.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with your elbow, not your hand. If you use a tissue, discard it immediately, and wash your hands thoroughly.
• Prevent any visitors that might be ill from visiting your child.
• If you have a cough, sneeze, sore throat, runny nose, and/or fever, it is recommended you stay home until you are well.

Families can go to the Health Education and Learning (HEAL) program page on the AHS website to learn more.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now