INDIO – (INT) – An anticipated spike in respiratory illnesses may have arrived early in the Inland Empire with the death of a 4-year-old child.

Riverside County health officials reported the death Monday November 21st at a hospital and said it was possibly linked to RSV.

The child resided in the eastern part of the county and died after a short illness.

RSV typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms, but can be particularly serious for infants and older adults each winter. The RSV season typically lasts from November to March. But Dr. Geoffrey Leung, public health officer for Riverside County, said this year began early and seems to be affecting more kids than previous seasons.

There is medication that can help protect some babies at high risk for severe RSV disease offered by healthcare providers.

Leung urges parents to take the necessary precautions to protect their children.
• Wash hands frequently.
• Cover coughs and sneezes.
• Keep children home when sick.
• Consider indoor masking.
• Disinfect frequently used surfaces.

Story Date: December 8, 2022