Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common viral infection that can cause significant illness in babies and young children. RSV affects the respiratory system, causing inflammation in the small airways of the lungs. While it often presents like the common cold in adults and older children, in infants under one year old, it can lead to serious complications such as bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways) or pneumonia.
Symptoms:
In babies and young children, RSV symptoms may include nasal congestion, coughing, sneezing, fever, loss of appetite, and irritability. Symptoms usually appear 4–6 days after exposure to the virus and can last for up to two weeks.
When to be Concerned:
- Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
- Blue tint around the lips or nail beds
- Severe fatigue or lethargy
- Refusal to feed or dehydration
Prevention:
RSV is highly contagious and can be spread through droplets when someone with the virus coughs or sneezes, or by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus. To prevent infection, practice good hygiene such as frequent hand washing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and cleaning surfaces frequently.
The CDC also recommends that parents of high-risk infants (premature babies, children with chronic lung disease, or those with certain heart conditions) talk to their pediatrician about palivizumab, a monoclonal antibody used to help prevent severe RSV illness. Also, keeping your child's immunizations up-to-date can strengthen their immune system against viral infections.
Treatment:
There is no specific treatment for RSV in children. Management typically focuses on relieving symptoms and ensuring adequate hydration. This may include:
- Using a cool-mist humidifier to help loosen mucus
- Saline nose drops followed by gentle suctioning to clean nasal passages
- Offering small, frequent feedings of liquids (breast milk or formula) to keep the baby hydrated
- Maintaining adequate rest and monitoring for signs of respiratory distress
When to Seek Medical Attention:
Seek immediate medical attention if your baby shows signs of severe RSV, such as rapid breathing, struggle breathing, or blue coloring around the lips or nails. Prompt care can prevent serious complications and hospital stays.