The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) continues to make its way through Iowa and Dallas County is no different.

Dallas County Health Department Director Ann Cochran says that RSV is a respiratory illness which commonly affects infants and elders and if not taken seriously the symptoms can cause hospitalization and even death. Cochran tells Raccoon Valley Radio while there is no vaccine available for RSV yet there are still some protections people can take.

“Our prevention strategies are more along the lines of behaviors. We are to wash our hands a lot. And if you are coughing or sniffling, for heaven’s sake, stay away from babies and toddlers. And that can be a challenge for a lot of people during the holiday season, getting together with new members of their extended family. But please, parents, don’t be shy about asking someone who appears to be sick to back off from your baby.”

Cochran advises parents to also wipe down toys and surfaces with defective wipes and wear a mask when it’s necessary. She says that Iowa has seen up to 500 cases increase in one week in early November.