Rsv when to be concerned?

Are you a new parent or caregiver concerned about Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) in infants and young children? You’ve come to the right place! In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about RSV, when it’s time to be worried and when it’s just another bump in the road.

Introduction

RSV is a common respiratory virus that affects many children, particularly those under the age of two. It spreads easily through coughing and sneezing and can lead to severe illness if left untreated. So how do you know when your child may have contracted RSV?

Defining Respiratory Syncytial Virus

According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a very contagious virus that causes infections in the lungs.” Essentially, it’s an infection from which anyone can suffer at any age group.

The Signs & Symptoms of Rsv

It’s important as parents/caregiver/guardian that we recognize signs/symptoms/signals/rashes/red spots as they present themselves! Some common symptoms of RSV include:

• Cough
• Runny nose
• Fever
• Decreased appetite
• Wheezing

Signs May Vary Among Different Age Groups!

Remember not all symptoms/side effects/reactions will show up with each child/age!! For example: older children may only experience cold-like symptoms whereas younger babies who are more vulnerable could get severely ill.

In addition…

Children who frequently spend time around others who smoke cigarettes increase their chance of getting worse symptoms.

Also…

Infants born prematurely or compromised immune systems such as heart conditions etc., are generally much more likely than healthy full-term babies older than one month

Make sure you’re always on high alert especially if your child falls under these categories.

When to be Concerned

It’s not always easy to differentiate if your baby has contracted RSV or another virus at times. So when should you be concerned?

Observe how hard they are breathing

When your kid is wheezing, grunting, struggling/battling/resisting to breathe then it’s a concern and time for immediate/urgent action!! Although some breaths may seem shallow that can also signify their struggle with breathing; be sure to call the pediatrician’s office/main doctor!

Feedings Can Also Indicate Something Is Wrong

For babies who refuse feedings/fluids/or have less than four wet diapers in one day — RED FLAG! This means they are most likely dehydrated meaning they need fluids immediately!

Dehydration makes matters worse and is caused by difficulty breathing, high fever, among many other things.

So keep an eye on them!!

Reduced Activity Level Calls Attention Too…

In addition…

Children and infants who show no interest in toys or any form of physical activity (outside of sleeping) draws attention.

Remember children especially infants seldom need much sleep time so being sedentary requires reason!! Make note of whether or not there is anything physically exerting/tiring/intense

The Flu Might Be In Play Too

Sometimes flu/cold symptoms can overlap with RSV making it difficult even more challenging distinguishing what illness your child may have. Should you feel unsure? Call the Pediatrician/Ambulance just in case- better safe than sorry!!!

Conclusion: Stay Alert but Don’t Panic!

While it’s important as parents/caregivers/guardians/stewards to know when our babies’ health is taking a turn for the worse, we shouldn’t head straight into panic mode every single cold season. It’s inevitable little ones will catch something potentially harmful amongst older people /older children!! By keeping a calm presence and watching for specific symptoms such as those outlined above in the article, we can be prepared to take action when necessary. Remember your baby/child deserves great care so keep an eye out but don’t have too much fear/concern!