By: William P. Hitchcock, M.D., F.A.A.P.
Assistant Clinical Professor, U.C.S.D.
La Jolla Pediatrics/ La Costa Pediatrics
As we approach the winter
season, many parents will be watching their children for symptoms of the cold, flu,
and the newest seasonal bug, H1N1. Most parents don’t know, however, about another
virus that’s both prevalent and contagious this time of year, which can be very
dangerous to some children, especially those born prematurely.
Respiratory syncytial
virus, or RSV, results in twice as
many pediatric hospitalizations than the seasonal flu. Worse yet, RSV can be hard to detect, with
symptoms similar to the common cold. By educating yourself on the virus, you
can take steps to protect your child from developing severe RSV infection this
season.
What is RSV?
RSV is a virus that often results in an upper
respiratory tract infection, characterized by a runny nose and fever. It
affects nearly all children by their second birthday, and in most healthy
children and adults, RSV simply causes cold-like symptoms that come and go
within a week or two. In certain children, however, the infection often progresses
to the lungs causing bronchiolitis exhibited by a severe cough, chest retractions
and wheezing. This infection can be very serious in many babies; in fact, RSV
infection is the leading cause of infant hospitalization in the United States.
In most of North America, RSV is prevalent in epidemics from fall to spring. “RSV
season,” as it’s often called, varies by geography and from year to year. For
example, in places with warm climates, such as Florida, it often starts as
early as June. To find out what time of year your baby is most susceptible to
RSV, consult your pediatrician.
Is my baby at risk for RSV?
All babies are at risk for contracting RSV,
particularly within the first six months of life, but babies with certain risk
factors, including prematurity, are especially vulnerable to developing severe
RSV infection. Due to their underdeveloped lungs and fewer vital antibodies to
fight off infection, premature babies (born earlier than 37 weeks gestational
age) are susceptible to serious RSV-related illness. Other babies at an
increased risk of developing severe RSV infection include those with a low
birth weight (less than 5.5 pounds), and those with chronic lung disease,
congenital heart disease or weakened immune systems. These babies should be
watched more closely for signs of RSV, even after six months of age.
Other risk factors of developing RSV infection
include a family history of asthma, frequent contact with other children (e.g.,
older siblings or attending daycare), or exposure to tobacco smoke.
What symptoms should I look for?
While many RSV symptoms initially resemble the
common cold (e.g., stuffy nose, cough and fever), the virus can escalate
quickly, resulting in more alarming symptoms, and even death. It is important
to contact your child’s pediatrician if you notice any of the following
symptoms:
%uFFFD Severe
cough
%uFFFD Difficulty
breathing
%uFFFD Turning
blue
%uFFFD High fever
%uFFFD Difficulty feeding
%uFFFD Fatigue
How can I help protect my baby?
RSV is a very contagious virus that is easily
spread through touching, kissing, sneezing and coughing. It can live on
surfaces like countertops for several hours. Because RSV is a virus,
antibiotics don’t help. To keep your baby healthy, make sure to avoid other
children and adults who are sick, and remind family and friends to always wash
their hands or use antibacterial gels before touching your baby. Frequently
washing your baby’s bedding, toys and personal items also helps to prevent the
spread of RSV. Additionally, for a small group of babies who are considered to
be at highest risk of becoming seriously ill from RSV, a monthly preventive
injection may be available from your child’s doctor.
This winter season, it is critical to follow these steps in order to protect
your child from exposure to RSV. Even if your baby is not displaying all of the
RSV symptoms listed above, always trust your instincts because you know your
child best. Consult a physician if any potential warning signs
appear.
For more information, visit www.rsvprotection.com.
Source: www.lajollapediatrics.net
or www.lacostapediatrics.com
