10/23/2020
It's RSV season.
The seasons are changing in Arizona and along with those changes comes RSV Season! Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common, but very dangerous, highly-contagious virus. It spreads from fall to spring but is most prevalent and at its peak from late December to mid-February.
The virus is often confused with the common cold because it starts out with upper respiratory tract symptoms like stuffy nose, cough, and low-grade fever. BUT, when it moves into a child's lower respiratory tract, that is when the virus inflames the lung's bronchioles, making it very difficult for babies to get enough air through the inflamed pathways.
Signs to look for include fast, labored breathing, pushing the belly in and out, or flaring the nostrils. Some kids will stop breathing entirely for a few seconds.
Other RSV symptoms include a lack of energy and poor feeding. It’s easy to tract how much your baby is eating if your baby is bottle fed. If you are breastfeeding your baby, it may be difficult to gauge just how much baby is eating. Make sure baby has a wet diaper and needs a change every 5-6 hours.
To help prevent your child from contracting RSV, wash your hands and your child's hands often with warm water and soap throughout the day.
If you suspect your child has contract RSV, pediatrician (480.747.0045) immediately.
