Ask a Black Doctor on The Numberz

S2 Ep8: Season 2 Episode 8: Situational Update on COVID-19/Flu/RSV Pt.2

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Additional resources

  • OHA COVID-19 vaccine website: covidvaccine.oregon.gov

  • OHA Facebook 

  • Safe+Strong website

  • Ask a Black Doctor on The Numberz

  • REACH webpage and REACH Facebook


    Q1: What is RSV?

    • Respiratory syncytial virus, also known as RSV, is a common respiratory virus that spreads through virus-containing repiratory droplets produced from coughing and sneezing
    • For most children, RSV produces mild illness. However, young children are especially susceptible to RSV. 
    • Those at higher risk of severe illness are:
      • Children under the age of 2
      • Premature infants
      • Infants with congenital or chornic cardiopulmonary disease
      •  Older adults 65+
      • Children and adults with weakend immune systems
      • When children are first infected with RSV, between 25-40% will have symptoms of bronchiolitis or penumonia
      • Yet, it’s important to keep in mind that only about 2% of children will require hospitalization


        • Q2: What are signs and symtpoms of RSV?

        • Symptoms will show within 4 to 6 days after getting infected. 
          • Runny nose
          • Decrease in appeitite
          • Sneezing
          • Fever
          • Wheezing
          • Symptoms in infants with RSV may be
            • Irritability
            • Decrease activity 
            • Breathing difficulties
            • These symptoms usually appear in stages and not all at once.


              • Q3: What is the impact of RSV in the Black and African American community?

              • Research has show that due to racism-related stress Black and African American women are more likely to deliver a premature baby. 

              • The risk of contracting RSV is even higher for premature babies. Making this of particular concern for Black and African American community. 

              • Being aware of the impact of RSV on the community and the preventive steps that can be taken, is critical to protect the health and well-being of children.  



              Q4: What are some safety measure one should take?

              • Stay home when sick to help protect other others in the community from catching the illness, if possible

              • Avoid close contact with sick people

              • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds 

              • Disinfect high touched surfaces such as doorknobs and mobile devices 

              • Consider a mask in crowded indoor settings

              • During this time of year, it’s recommend to stay up to date on flu and COVID vaccinations to help prevent other repiratory illness. 

              • If you have questions about your child’s care, call your health care provider or visit an urgent care center. 


                • Document accessibility: For individuals with disabilities or individuals who speak a language other than English, OHA can provide information in alternate formats such as translations, large print, or braille. Contact the Health Information Center at 1-971-673-2411, 711 TTY or [email protected].
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