Bronchiolitis in infants is commonly associated with which virus?

Bronchiolitis in infants is commonly associated with which virus?

• A. Rhinovirus
• B. RSV
• C. Adenovirus
• D. Influenza

Answer: (B)

Bronchiolitis in infants is most commonly caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). RSV directly infects the small airways, leading to inflammation, edema, and increased mucus that narrow the bronchioles, which is why young infants often develop rapid breathing and wheezing. Because infants have very small airways, this obstruction can quickly become distressing, especially during the winter months when RSV is more prevalent. Diagnosis is usually clinical, with testing reserved for certain cases. Management focuses on supportive care—ensuring hydration, clearing secretions, and providing supplemental oxygen if needed—while prevention with palivizumab is considered for high-risk infants, not treatment.

Bronchiolitis in infants is most commonly caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). RSV directly infects the small airways, leading to inflammation, edema, and increased mucus that narrow the bronchioles, which is why young infants often develop rapid breathing and wheezing. Because infants have very small airways, this obstruction can quickly become distressing, especially during the winter months when RSV is more prevalent. Diagnosis is usually clinical, with testing reserved for certain cases. Management focuses on supportive care—ensuring hydration, clearing secretions, and providing supplemental oxygen if needed—while prevention with palivizumab is considered for high-risk infants, not treatment.