What is respiratory syncytial virus?
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the major cause of infections of the
breathing passages and lungs in infants and young children. In addition to
causing pneumonia, it is the leading cause of bronchiolitis (an infection of the
bronchioles, the small breathing tubes of the lungs).
RSV is transmitted from an infected child by secretions from the nose or
mouth by direct contact or by droplets in the air. The period of greatest
contagiousness is in the first 2 to 4 days of the infection. RSV can last
between 2 to 8 days, but symptoms can remain up to 3 weeks. RSV occurs more
commonly during the winter and early spring.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infects almost all children at least once
before they are 2 years old. Most of the time, this virus only causes minor
cold-like symptoms. However, for some babies infection can be more dangerous.
For certain infants who are extremely preterm or who are born with heart
disease or lung disease, RSV infection can be especially serious. Preterm
infants often have underdeveloped lungs and may have difficulty fighting an RSV
infection once they become infected.
What are the signs and symptoms of RSV?
Signs and symptoms of RSV include, but are not limited to:
- Fever (temperature above 100 degrees Fahrenheit)
- Cough
- Wheezing
- Runny nose
- Rapid breathing
- Deep breathing
- Blue colored lips or fingernails
- Poor appetite
How is RSV treated?
If your child is having difficulty breathing or has asthma, your doctor may
try a medicine called a bronchodilator to help open his airways. Some youngsters
with bronchiolitis may have to be hospitalized for treatment with oxygen. If
your child is unable to drink because of rapid breathing, he may need to receive
intravenous fluids. On rare occasions, infected babies will need a respirator to
help them breathe.
Antibacterials are not used for treating viral infections, including those
caused by RSV.
There are things you can do at home to help your child feel more comfortable,
although any illness that complicates your child’s breathing should be evaluated
first by your child’s doctor.
How can I make my child feel better at home?
- Do not allow anyone to smoke around your child or in the home. This can
complicate breathing.
- Try using a cool mist vaporizer to soothe dry breathing passages if
recommended by your doctor. Hot-air vaporizers should be avoided because of
the risk for scald burns.
- Make sure your child gets plenty fluids such as water and fruit juices.
- For fever, give your child medicine such as acetaminophen. Do not give
your child aspirin.
- Saline nasal drops my help loosen mucus in the nose.
- Blow little noses frequently (or use a nasal aspirator for infants).
- Allow your child plenty of rest, as needed.
- Give all medicines as instructed by your child’s doctor.