Respiratory Syncytial Virus: What to do when it’s more than a cold?

he is Respiratory Syncytial Virus (VRS) It is one of the most common diseases that affect babies and young children. Almost all children will be infected with RSV by age 2, but in most cases, symptoms are mild, similar to a cold. However, some children can become very ill and require urgent medical attention. Here we will tell you everything you need to know about this virus and ways to prevent problems.

he is VRS It is a virus that affects the respiratory tract and spreads easily from person to person, especially during the cold season, between late autumn and early spring. This virus enters the body through the nose or eyes, through direct contact with nasal secretions, saliva or infected mucus.

It is also a major factor a hospital in children under one year of age, with approximately 2 to 3 in every 100 infected infants requiring hospital treatment. In these cases, children may need oxygen or intravenous fluids to help them breathe and stay hydrated.

Fortunately, yes new options vaccination which may protect children from serious illnesses caused by RSV. These vaccines are available to be given to pregnant mothers and, in some cases, directly to babies.

RSV vaccine for pregnant women

Pregnant women can get the vaccine Abrysvo between 32 and 36 weeks of gestation if your baby is born during RSV season. This vaccine reduces a baby’s risk of being hospitalized by up to 57% in the first six months of life.

RSV vaccine for infants

The vaccine nirsivamab (Beyfortus) It is given to newborns or young children before the RSV season. This injection has been shown to be very effective (80-90%) in preventing hospitalization due to RSV. It is given only once during the season, providing protection throughout the period of greatest risk.

Palivizumab: another option for high-risk children

he is palivizumab It is another treatment for children at high risk for serious complications from RSV. It is given as a monthly injection during RSV season, but is only indicated for children under 2 years of age who have pre-existing conditions, such as heart or lung disease.

Symptoms of RSV in infants

RSV symptoms in babies usually start as a common cold, but can progress to more serious breathing problems, such as bronchiolitis o the smallpox. Symptoms include:

• Cold: Cough, fever (higher than 38°C), nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing.
• Bronchiolitis: Difficulty breathing, rapid breathing, dilatation of the nasal passages, wheezing.
• Irritability and poor appetite.

When should I worry about my baby’s breathing?

It is important to be alert for signs of respiratory distress. If your baby shows chest retraction (the chest sinks when he breathes), or if he has any of the following symptoms, seek immediate medical attention:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
• Blue or pale skin, lips or nails.
• Dehydration (less than one wet diaper every 8 hours).
• Decreased activity or awareness.

How to treat RSV at home

Although there is no specific treatment for RSV, you can make your baby more comfortable with some basic care:

• Nasal saline solution: Helps to clear the respiratory tract.
• Humidifier: Keep the air moist to make breathing easier.
• Frequent feeding: Make sure your baby is well hydrated, even if he has difficulty feeding due to swallowing.
• Fever medicines: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be helpful in reducing fever (if your baby is older than 6 months). Avoid aspirin and cough medicines.

RSV prevention: practical recommendations

• Vaccination: Make sure the whole family knows about vaccines, including flu and COVID vaccines. Pregnant women should be vaccinated against whooping cough.
• Evita a lot: Limit your baby’s exposure to crowded places and avoid being around sick people.
• Hand hygiene: Wash your hands often with soap and water, and teach your children to do the same.
• Germ free environment: Disinfect the surfaces of your home regularly and avoid tobacco smoke or other irritants.

he is VRS It is a common disease, but in some cases it can be serious, especially in young babies. By knowing the symptoms, vaccine options, and precautions, you can protect your baby and prevent complications. If your baby has severe symptoms, it is essential that you seek medical attention as soon as possible.