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RSV: What is it?
Imagine taking your baby to the doctor with a common cold, and quickly being escorted to another room - away from all the other babies. This circumstance is actually not that uncommon, and does involve a virus which causes the common cold. The virus? Respiratory Syncytial Virus, or RSV. The reason you have been escorted away from others? This virus is very contagious and your baby could pass it on to others.
RSV is nothing but a common cold to most adults. But to a baby, it can cause serious respiratory distress, infection and pneumonia. RSV is often seen during winter and spring - the normal cold and flu time of year. A baby who has RSV may be more inclined to become asthmatic later in life. This virus is the most common cause of pneumonia and other bronchial problems in children under the age of one.
Symptoms of RSV can include apnea symptoms, a runny nose, rapid breathing, wheezing, coughing and poor appetite. You may hear sounds as your baby breathes, which is a sure sign you should visit your doctor. Also, if your baby seems to be pulling in his or her tummy while breathing, see your doctor right away.
Your pediatrician will probably diagnose your baby through the symptoms he or she is presenting. But once in the hospital, the virus can be detected through nasal secretions. Thes secretions can be collected with a cotton swab or a bulb syringe.
If your baby is diagnosed with RSV, he or she will probably be hospitalized. Your baby may be given supplemental oxygen and intravenous fluids. The symptoms of RSV may be interfering with your baby's feedings, causing your little one to be dehydrated.
Your baby may be given breathing treatments to open the bronchial passages. Tube feedings may be necessary if your baby is having a hard time nursing or taking a bottle. Antibiotics are not used to fight a virus. Since RSV is a virus, most babies are given supportive care during their hospital stay. Your baby will probably be better after eight to fifteen days.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus is highly contagious. To avoid contracting it or having it passed to your baby, ask everyone to wash hands thoroughly before holding your baby. If you have other children at home who have the sniffles, keep your newborn away from that sibling until the cold has passed. The virus can be spread through droplets, so teach siblings how to cover their mouth when sneezing. Wash down sinks, doorknobs and other surfaces with antibacterial cleaners to prevent others in the family from contracting the virus.
Each winter season, approximately 50% of the total amount of babies and children in the United States become infected with RSV. Out of these, about 90,000 are hospitalized, with 4,500 cases leading to death. So if your infant gets the sniffles and is not breathing clearly, take him or her to the doctor to be evaluated for RSV.
Child Health
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First Signs of Pregnancy
- missed menstrual period
- nausea or upset stomach
- extreme fatigue or tiredness
- frequent urination
- tender breasts or soreness
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