Infectious diseases are illnesses caused by germs like bacteria, viruses, and fungi that can spread from person to person or through the environment. 

The Health Protection Service works hard to prevent and control these diseases to keep our communities safe and healthy. We monitor outbreaks, provide advice to healthcare professional, and support vaccination and infection control efforts to reduce the risk of illness for everyone. 

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), is a prevalent and contagious virus that affects the respiratory system, particularly in young children and older adults. RSV infections often lead to mild cold-like symptoms, but in some cases, especially in infants and individuals with compromised immune systems, it can cause severe respiratory issues.

RSV is a leading cause of bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lungs) and pneumonia in children under the age of one.