RSV, or Respiratory Syncytial Virus, is a type of virus that affects the respiratory system. It is a very common virus, especially among children.
It is responsible for a large number of illnesses and can be very dangerous, even causing death in some cases. RSV happens most of the time from October to March. During this period, hospitals are overloaded by cases.
RSV is a contagious virus and can be spread through contact with an infected person’s saliva, mucus, or respiratory secretions. It can also be spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also infect a person through contact with contaminated surfaces or objects.
Unfortunately, the virus is most commonly seen in infants and young children. Symptoms of RSV can range from mild to severe.
What Are the Symptoms for Infants
Even though most children will only experience mild symptoms, it can be dangerous in some cases. Knowing the symptoms of RSV in babies is important so that parents can seek help if necessary.
1. Coughing: Coughing is one of the most common and earliest symptoms of RSV in babies. It may be dry or productive, and can be accompanied by a runny nose.
2. Wheezing: Wheezing is a whistling or squeaky sound that can be heard when a baby breathes. It is a sign of narrowing or blockage in the airways caused by RSV.
3. Runny Nose: A runny nose but with heavy discharge that does not let your baby breathe. It may be clear or yellowish in color.
4. Difficulty Breathing: RSV can cause difficulty breathing in some babies, including rapid breathing or shallow breaths.
5. Fever: Fever is another common symptom of RSV in babies. It may be accompanied by other symptoms such as chills, sweating, and dehydration.
6. Irritability: Babies with RSV may become more irritable than usual, crying more often and for longer periods of time.
7. Poor Appetite: Babies with RSV may not be interested in eating and drinking normally, leading to a decrease in appetite.
8. Reduced Activity: Babies with RSV may be less active than usual, and may not be interested in playing or being held.
9. Vomiting: Some babies with RSV may experience vomiting or diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration if not treated properly.
10. Bluish Skin Color: Babies with RSV may have a bluish skin color, which can indicate a lack of oxygen. This is a serious and potentially life-threatening symptom and should be treated immediately. Go on Cookie Casino and get exclusive prizes.
Which Infants Are More Likely to Get RSV?
All babies can be infected by the virus. But there are categories that are more likely to get RSV than the others. In order to reduce the risks, it is important to understand which babies are more prone to have it.
First, babies born prematurely have an increased risk for RSV. This is because preterm babies have underdeveloped lungs, which makes them more vulnerable to infection. In addition, premature babies are more likely to have other conditions that increase the risk of respiratory problems, such as chronic lung disease and bronchopulmonary dysplasia.
Second, babies who attend daycare or have siblings in daycare are more likely to get RSV. Since daycare centers are a breeding ground for germs and viruses, babies who spend time there are more likely to get exposed to RSV.
Third, babies who have a weakened immune system or chronic medical conditions are more likely to develop RSV. This includes babies with asthma, cystic fibrosis, and congenital heart disease.
Finally, babies who are exposed to secondhand smoke are more likely to contract the disease. Secondhand smoke increases the risk of respiratory infections, including RSV.
Which Symptoms Warn You of an Emergency Situation?
The first symptom of RSV to watch out for is difficulty breathing. This could include rapid and shallow breathing, labored breathing, or even pauses in breathing. If your baby is having difficulty breathing, seek medical attention right away.
The second symptom is a bluish tint to the skin or fingernails, which could indicate a lack of oxygen. Other signs of oxygen deprivation include a grayish or pale complexion, and a lack of energy.
The third emergency symptom of RSV is a high fever. If your baby has a fever higher than 100.4°F, contact your doctor immediately.
The fourth symptom is coughing or wheezing. If your baby is coughing or wheezing, this could be a sign of RSV and should be checked out.
The fifth emergency symptom of RSV is an inability to eat or drink. If your baby is not eating or drinking and seems dehydrated, this could be a sign of RSV and should be taken seriously.
The sixth emergency symptom of RSV is irritability or fussiness. If your baby seems particularly fussy or irritable and nothing you do seems to make them happy, this could be a sign of RSV.