MUSCAT: The Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is witnessing a surge in cases, particularly among children under six months, making them highly vulnerable to complications. Families in Barka were alerted through a letter from the office of the Wali, citing information from the Director-General of the Directorate-General of Health Services in Al Batinah South Governorate.
The advisory urged families to limit unnecessary gatherings, especially when respiratory symptoms appear, and to seek early medical attention if symptoms arise in young children. Most respiratory viruses, including RSV, tend to peak during winter months.
“There is a notable increase in viral infections, particularly among paediatric patients, and RSV is a key concern,” said Dr Dilip Kumar Singvi, Specialist in Internal Medicine at Burjeel Hospital. RSV primarily affects the upper respiratory tract and sometimes the lungs. It spreads through droplets when an infected person sneezes or coughs.
Common symptoms include a runny nose, fever, cough, shortness of breath, wheezing and difficulty swallowing. Dr Singvi advised avoiding crowded places, isolating if infected, staying hydrated, and using supportive treatments like paracetamol and antihistamines, noting that antibiotics and antivirals are ineffective.
Surveillance and research in Oman continue under WHO’s Eastern Mediterranean Acute Respiratory Infection Surveillance Network, which monitors RSV and influenza-like illnesses. Studies from Sultan Qaboos University Hospital and the Royal Hospital in Muscat show RSV as a leading cause of hospital admissions for infant bronchiolitis.
Co-infections with influenza and human metapneumovirus (hMPV) have been reported, highlighting seasonal patterns and genetic diversity of RSV-A and RSV-B strains.
Dr Mahmood al Rahbi, Head of Emergency at Samayil Government Hospital, emphasised the need for expanded laboratory surveillance beyond major hospitals, noting limited data among adults and the elderly and the absence of a national RSV vaccination programme.
Karim bin Bakhsh al Balushi, CEO of Al Raneen Private School, highlighted initiatives linking health and education sectors. “The Ministry of Health’s plan for the 2025-2026 academic year sets a national model for preventive health, putting student well-being at the heart of education,” he said.
Early disease detection and health awareness not only create a safer learning environment but also align with Oman’s vision for a healthier, more capable generation. “Investing in student health is investing in the nation’s future,” Al Balushi added.
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