What is the first line treatment for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)?

The first line treatment for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is supportive care. RSV is a common viral infection that primarily affects the respiratory tract, particularly in infants and young children. Since RSV is a viral infection, antiviral medications like ribavirin are not routinely used as first-line treatments, especially in otherwise healthy individuals.

Supportive care includes interventions that help alleviate symptoms and support the patient's recovery. This may consist of ensuring adequate hydration, maintaining oxygen saturation levels through supplemental oxygen if needed, and addressing respiratory distress through measures such as bronchodilators for wheezing. The focus of treatment in RSV is on supporting the patient’s overall wellbeing as the illness typically resolves on its own without the need for specific antiviral therapy.

Other choices such as macrolide antibiotics are not appropriate as RSV is a viral infection and antibiotics would not be effective against it. Dexamethasone, a corticosteroid, is not routinely used for RSV treatment either and is more typically reserved for severe cases or specific complications. Therefore, supportive care remains the cornerstone of effective management for RSV.