ASL - RSV: What parents should know

Rising cases of respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, as well as other illnesses like bronchiolitis and viral pneumonia have caused national concern about a strain on hospital resources and may also be worrisome for parents. RSV is a very common seasonal respiratory virus that typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms such as coughing, runny or stuffy nose, and fever. It enters the body through the eyes, nose or mouth. “Most children with RSV have cold symptoms and can rest and recover at home,” Monroe said. Monroe also recommends keeping children hydrated and using over-the-counter medicines if age appropriate to help with fever.   However, in more rare cases, infections can sometimes be dangerous - especially for the elderly and children under the age of one year. There are times when patients may need oxygen or respiratory support or intravenous fluids. If children are showing any of the following severe signs of RSV, Monroe says, they may need emergency care: • Visible respiratory distress or using additional muscles to breathe – flared nostrils, visible neck muscles, or blueness in the face or lips   • Fevers (~100.4) in babies under ~60 day of age • Fussy, irritable, or lethargic moods  • Less eating or drinking than usual – for younger children and babies, this can also result in fewer diapers or less frequent bottle and breastfeeding  “If their gut says they need to bring their child in for attention right now, they should follow that instinct,” she said.  People infected with RSV are usually contagious for three to eight days, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The virus often spreads through coughing and sneezing but can also survive for hours on hard surfaces. Regularly sanitizing things like toys, door handles and tables along with frequent handwashing, especially when coming home from work or the grocery store, can go a long way in reducing spread, Monroe says. She also encourages parents to stay home when sick, reschedule playdates when children are sick, or wear a mask if leaving home becomes necessary.   Follow the link to read the entire article (in English): https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/chi...