Illinois in ‘health system crisis’ as spread of pediatric respiratory infections increases
An increase in emergency department visits and hospitalizations due to respiratory infections, especially respiratory syncytial virus, have led to an “acute shortage” in pediatric intensive care unit beds in Illinois.
Health care professionals across the U.S. have reported increased spread of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in children, leading to overwhelmed hospitals in some cases. Illinois Department of Public Health officials sent guidance to local health departments Oct. 20 warning of RSV.
The increased spread has led to “a health system crisis in pediatric critical care access with an acute shortage in pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) beds, directly impacting the health system capacity heading into the fall/winter,” the statement read.
There are 289 PICU beds in Illinois, IDPH reports, and more than 50% are located in the City of Chicago. As of Oct. 18, only 6% of the state’s PICU beds were available.
“As we head into flu season and await a potential COVID-19 surge, this low number of PICU beds makes prevention of non-vaccine preventable infections, like RSV and other respiratory diseases, even more important,” the IDPH statement said. “When PICU bed capacity is compromised, the hospital system’s ability to fully address acute care and serious illness may also become compromised, leading to severe health outcomes, including death. Protecting this critical infrastructure is vital for children across Illinois.”
RSV is a “common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms,” according to IDPH. While most people recover in a week or two, IDPH says, RSV can be serious, especially for infants and older adults.
The virus spreads through respiratory droplets and surfaces, according to IDPH guidance, and people who are infected typically show symptoms within 4 to 6 days.
IDPH encouraged the following actions to mitigate the risk of RSV overwhelming hospitals:
Mask indoors in crowded areas, especially at large gatherings during the upcoming holiday season
Wear a mask if you develop any symptoms, including a runny nose, cough or fever.
Cover your cough and sneezes and stay home until you are feeling better (or fever free) for at least 24 hours without requiring fever reducing medications.
During holiday parties or communal dining, make sure to frequently wash your hands with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer and avoid touching utensils that are frequently handled by others.
Whenever possible, maximize indoor ventilation and air circulation.
Get vaccinated for the flu and get up to date on the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible.
If your child 6 months or older qualifies for Synagis for RSV prevention, talk to your provider at the earliest opportunity.
IDPH’s statement also advised health care providers to take mitigation strategies, including to “expedite discharges when applicable, including considering the feasibility of home health care and home hospital care.”
More information about RSV in children is available online from IDPH.
