A child under the age of 5 has died from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), according to public health officials in Pueblo.

It is the first pediatric death in Pueblo County so far this year, according to a news release from the Pueblo Department of Public Health & Environment.

RSV is a common respiratory virus that infects the nose, throat and lungs. It can spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes or by direct contact with a contaminated surface.

According to the Mayo Clinic, it is so common that most children have been infected with the virus by the age of 2. Symptoms are “typically” mild, the clinic says, but can cause severe infection in some people, including babies 12 months and younger.

In severe cases, the infection can spread to the lower respiratory tract, causing pneumonia or bronchiolitis — inflammation of the small airway passages entering the lungs.

Outbreaks tend to occur from fall to the end of spring, according to the Mayo Clinic.

“This tragic loss reminds us that respiratory illnesses can still impact our community even after the normal peak season has passed,” said Alicia Solis, program manager at PDPHE. “It is very important for every individual to take precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones.”

According to the department, symptoms of RSV include a cough, runny nose, congestion, a decrease in appetite, sneezing, wheezing or fever.

PDPHE encourages people, especially older adults and infants younger than 6 months, to receive an RSV vaccine. The vaccine is available at local pharmacies and the health department through the end of April.

Other prevention methods include:

• Stay home and away from others when sick.
• Wash your hands often and thoroughly.
• Wear a mask when around others who are sick.
• Get tested if you have symptoms.