RSV on the rise in Eastern Iowa; seasonal flu still absent

No surprise.

Cases of the respiratory virus known as RSV are on the rise in Iowa.

More surprising may be that seasonal flu is still virtually non-existent in the state.

According to the latest report from the Iowa Department of Public Health, seasonal influenza had yet to be detected in Iowa or surrounding states in late January.

All cases so far have been H1N1 flu, according to the Iowa Influenza Surveillance Network, with 539 people hospitalized this season from diagnosed H1N1.

Iowa's flu season typically peaks in early February.

Respiratory syncytial virus, the disease known as RSV that is particularly hard on infants, was at peak levels, according to the latest state report in late January.

Symptoms of RSV mimic the common cold with a runny nose, fever and coughing, but it also can be more severe, with wheezing and difficulty breathing.

Dr. Christine Ziebold and Dr. Charles Jennissen said the University of Iowa Children's Hospital in Iowa City has seen an increase in RSV in the past month.

Jennissen said the RSV season so far appears to be relatively mild compared to past years.

“It is possible that the RSV virus is not quite as virulent this season, or perhaps we still haven't reached the peak of the disease in the community,” he said.

Dr. James Matsuda, St. Luke's Pediatric Hospitalist medical director, agreed.

Matsuda said he does not think the number of cases is any more than what is typical for this time of year.

St. Luke's Cedar Rapids Pediatrics said cases of RSV are on the rise in the Cedar Rapids area, mostly in children under one year. RSV can be more severe in infants and young children because of their smaller airways.

The same is true at Mercy Medical Center in Cedar Rapids, where an uptick has been seen in RSV, but no dramatic increase.

Some pediatric patients have been admitted to the hospital.

“Not a surge by any means at this point but an indication that RSV is out in the community,” spokeswoman Karen Vander Sanden said.

Like other viruses, RSV is spread by coughing and sneezing or touching something containing the virus and then rubbing the eyes, nose or mouth.

It's a myth that viruses are killed by cold weather.

Experts note that heat and humidity kill viruses, while influenza and other respiratory viruses thrive in cold, dry environments.

Thoroughly and frequently washing hands can help stem the spread of illness.