RSV cases in Scotland reach 'extraordinary' levels with young people most affected

New data from Public Health Scotland has revealed that cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) reach “extraordinary” levels in Scotland.

The health board said cases of RSV have been at high levels for the week beginning December 9 and the two weeks before it.

Case levels are “extraordinary” compared to previous years, with younger age groups being more affected than older people.

The new data shows extraordinary incidences of the virus in the age group of five to 14-year-olds.

Cases are also high in those aged one and under, one to four-year-olds and 15 to 44-year-olds.

The health board said overall levels of those testing positive for RSV remain “high” compared to previous years, but hospital admissions have “remained relatively stable, but high”.

According to the NHS website, RSV is a common respiratory virus that causes a mild illness with cold-like symptoms in most people but can also cause severe lower respiratory infections like pneumonia.

The infection can happen at any time of year but is more common from late autumn to early spring.

The virus is highly infectious and spreads quickly when people with the virus cough or sneeze.

It also says RSV is the most common reason that babies are admitted to hospital with breathing problems, with premature babies and under two-year-olds being most at risk.

In the week leading up to December 1, the number of lab-confirmed cases nearly doubled, with circulation increasing alongside hospital admissions.

In Elgin, health board bosses were forced to close several wards at Dr Gray’s Hospital due to a norovirus outbreak.

All non-essential visiting was suspended across the hospital in a bid to control the spread of the virus.