RSV (Respiratory Syncitial Virus)

RSV is a virus and the major cause of bronchiolitis (viral infection of the lower respiratory tract) and pneumonia in children less than one year of age.  It occurs most often during the winter and early spring.  It most often occurs in infants and small children under 2 years of age.  It is very communicable, by the time children reach the age of 2 years nearly 100% will have acquired an RSV infection.

Transmission:  RSV is acquired by contact with infected secretions, primarily infected hands touching the eyes or nose.  It is not an airborne illness.

Symptoms:  After exposure, the incubation is 5-8 days.  Symptoms include:  fever, large amounts of nasal secretions, ear or eye infections and development of a wet, choky cough.  As the illness progresses, these symptoms may appear:  wheezing, rapid or difficulty breathing and retractions (pulling in of chest muscles when breathing).

Prevention:  Good hand washing is the best prevention.  Wash toys between each use, cover mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, then wash your hands.  Dispose of all tissues in the garbage.  Don't share towels or washcloths to prevent the spread from dried secretions.

Treatment:  Treatment includes management of the symptoms, use of a cool mist vaporizer, and plenty of rest.  If your child's symptoms are worsening or with any difficult respirations call the office to be seen.  Some children require hospitalization to manage the respiratory symptoms.