Older people have little knowledge about the common cold virus RSV. About one in five people over the age of 60 know the term, according to a study commissioned by the pharmaceutical company GSK. Only four percent describe themselves as well informed.
Three quarters of adults aged 60 and over do not feel informed about respiratory syncytial virus. Many respondents find it difficult to assess the danger and risk of contamination. The Spectra study was conducted among 754 people aged 60 and over. Despite the low level of knowledge, 43 percent of older people indicated that they had received all recommended vaccinations. This also includes RSV, which is expressly recommended for people over 60 in the Austrian vaccination plan. However, the vaccines, which have been available since last year, have to be paid for yourself and cost more than 200 euros.
More knowledge about Covid-19 and flu
In comparison, according to the study, people in Austria are more familiar with Covid-19 and flu. When it comes to Covid-19, 65 percent of adults say they have a good level of knowledge, compared to 61 percent when it comes to flu.
According to experts, the risk is considered too low. “We are dealing with a virus that is much more common than we previously thought and that can also have serious consequences,” says Viennese pulmonologist Arshang Valipour in a press release. People with respiratory diseases such as asthma and COPD, diabetes and chronic cardiovascular disease have a higher risk of serious diseases.
Peak in the spring
In mild cases, those affected have cold and flu-like symptoms. Severe cases lead to symptoms such as breathing difficulties and shortness of breath, bronchitis and pneumonia. According to the MedUni Vienna, the RSV peak is currently moving towards spring.
In 2019, three million people over the age of 60 became ill across Europe, 274,000 hospital admissions and around 20,000 deaths were reported. So far in 2023/2024 the peak was recorded in late January/early February.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
