05/09/2024
Bronchiolitis worldwide: key facts, risks for young children, and how to protect them with air purification
Bronchiolitis is a common viral respiratory infection affecting young children, particularly those under two years of age. Globally, the disease affects millions of infants every year, with the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) being the main cause. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that RSV leads to over 33 million cases of acute lower respiratory infection in children annually, with approximately 3 million hospitalizations and around 120,000 deaths, mostly in infants under six months of age. The virus spreads quickly, especially in daycare centers, homes, and other enclosed spaces where young children gather.
In this article, we will cover the key global figures related to bronchiolitis, the risks it poses to young children, and the effective prevention measures, including air purification. We will also introduce Air Protect by NatéoSanté, a cutting-edge air purifier specifically designed to safeguard the most vulnerable children from airborne viruses.
Key global figures for bronchiolitis
Bronchiolitis remains a major global health concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where healthcare access may be limited. Here are the key statistics:
- Each year, approximately 33 million cases of bronchiolitis are reported globally among children under five, with RSV being the primary culprit.
- Over 3 million hospitalizations occur annually, predominantly in children under two years of age.
- The global mortality rate from RSV-related respiratory infections stands at around 120,000 annually, primarily affecting infants in their first six months of life.
The risks for young children
Young children, particularly those under six months, are at higher risk of severe complications from bronchiolitis due to their developing respiratory systems. Symptoms include rapid breathing, wheezing, and difficulty eating or drinking, which may lead to dehydration. In severe cases, respiratory distress can occur, requiring immediate medical intervention. Infants born prematurely or with underlying health conditions are particularly vulnerable.
Preventing bronchiolitis
Prevention is essential to curbing the spread of bronchiolitis. The following measures are recommended:
- Regular handwashing to minimize virus transmission.
- Avoiding close contact with infected individuals.
- Keeping surfaces and toys clean, especially in daycare settings.
- Ensuring good indoor air quality, which can help reduce the presence of airborne viruses and allergens.
The role of air purification in preventing airborne virus transmission
Air purification is a highly effective method for reducing the transmission of airborne viruses like RSV. According to the WHO, viruses can remain suspended in the air for extended periods, especially in poorly ventilated areas, increasing the risk of infection in enclosed environments.
Medical-grade professional air purifiers like Air Protect from NatéoSanté are equipped with advanced HEPA filters, capable of capturing up to 99.97% of fine particles, including viruses and bacteria. By continuously cleaning the air, these devices help reduce the concentration of harmful pathogens, allergens, and pollutants, creating a safer environment for infants and children.
Air Protect : the ideal solution to prevent bronchiolitis
NatéoSanté’s Air Protect is specifically designed to protect young children from respiratory infections, including bronchiolitis. Whether in nurseries, maternity wards, or homes, Air Protect ensures a healthier air quality that can significantly reduce the risks of viral transmission.
Key features of Air Protect include:
- CO2 measurement and ventilation indicator: A ventilation and confinement indicator to warn you about indoor air quality and indicate when it’s time to open the windows to ventilate.
- HEPA filtration: Removes 99.97% of fine particles, including viruses, bacteria, and allergens.
- Protection against allergens: Filters fine particles, pollen, mold, and other common allergens that can exacerbate respiratory issues.
- Prevents respiratory infections: By improving indoor air quality, Air Protect helps reduce the likelihood of asthma, allergies, and infections.
Bronchiolitis remains a serious threat to young children around the world. While traditional prevention methods like hand hygiene are essential, air purification offers an added layer of protection against airborne viruses.
With Air Protect, NatéoSanté is committed to providing parents and healthcare professionals with a reliable tool to safeguard children’s health, ensuring they breathe cleaner, healthier air.
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