Children's hospitals in Canada are witnessing an increase in cases of one of the common respiratory viruses, which can, in rare cases, lead to serious illness in infants. The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes pneumonia and respiratory tract infections, and can lead to severe infection in some people, including children under two years old and the elderly with pre-existing respiratory diseases. According to Dr. Earl Rubin, Director of Infectious Diseases at Montreal Children's Hospital, cases of the virus declined significantly early in the pandemic. However, they increased last fall and are now rising in many parts of the country. Rubin also indicated that cases of this virus were one of the reasons for long waiting times and bed shortages in his hospital. He also called for caution regarding the triple threat of influenza, new variants of the coronavirus, and respiratory syncytial virus. Likewise, the virus generally leads to cold-like symptoms such as runny nose, cough, and fever, and infants under two years old are at risk of serious illnesses such as bronchiolitis. Additionally, Rubin says the respiratory virus mainly spreads through sneezing or coughing and recommends hand washing, and for older children, making sure they sneeze into their elbow and cover their mouths when coughing. Regarding treatment, during the respiratory virus season, injections containing antibodies are sometimes prescribed to protect premature infants. Doctors may also prescribe oral steroids or inhalers to facilitate breathing.