Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that frequently affects infants and young children. It can cause infections in the lungs and airways. Parents often wonder if a baby can contract RSV more than once. Understanding RSV, including the possibility of repeat infections, helps parents manage their child’s health by recognizing symptoms and implementing preventive measures.
What is Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)?
RSV is a highly contagious virus that causes infections in the respiratory tract, including the lungs and airways. Almost all children experience at least one infection by the age of two. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets from coughs or sneezes and can survive on surfaces. Infection occurs when a child touches a contaminated surface and then their eyes, mouth, or nose.
Symptoms usually appear four to six days after exposure. In infants, initial symptoms often resemble a common cold, including a runny nose, cough, and fever. Some babies may also develop wheezing, difficulty breathing, fussiness, or poor feeding. RSV can progress to more serious lower respiratory tract infections such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia. These complications are a concern for infants under 12 months, premature babies, and those with underlying heart or lung conditions.
Can a Baby Get RSV More Than Once?
Yes, a baby can get RSV more than once, and reinfection is common. Immunity from an initial RSV infection is not long-lasting and often wanes within a few months to a few years. This temporary immunity means the body may not have sufficient protection against future exposures.
Different strains of RSV also contribute to repeat infections. RSV has two main subgroups, A and B, which can co-circulate. Antibodies against one strain may not fully protect against another, allowing reinfection. Young children’s developing immune systems result in a less robust and shorter-lived immune response. This incomplete immunity increases the likelihood of multiple RSV infections during early childhood.
Subsequent Infections: Symptoms and Severity
If a baby contracts RSV again, symptoms can vary, but subsequent infections are often less severe than the initial one. The body retains some partial immunity, which may help reduce illness severity. However, repeat infections can still cause health issues, particularly for infants with certain risk factors.
Factors influencing severity include the baby’s age, time since previous infection, and any underlying health conditions. Babies born prematurely, those with chronic lung disease, or congenital heart conditions remain at higher risk for severe illness, regardless of prior infection. Parents should monitor for signs of worsening respiratory distress, such as:
Noisy breathing
Flaring nostrils
Skin pulling in between the ribs during breathing
Bluish discoloration around the lips, mouth, or fingernails
Pauses in breathing
These signs indicate a need for immediate medical attention.
Reducing the Risk of RSV
Implementing good hygiene practices is important in reducing the risk of RSV infections for babies, both initial and subsequent ones. Frequent handwashing with soap and water is an effective measure to limit the spread of the virus. Caregivers should wash their hands thoroughly before touching the baby, especially after coughing, sneezing, or being in public places.
Minimizing exposure to sick individuals can also help prevent infection. If someone in the household is unwell, they should avoid close contact with the baby, especially kissing or sharing utensils. Regularly cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces and toys can remove viral particles that may cause infection.
For infants at high risk of severe RSV disease, such as premature babies or those with specific health conditions, specialized preventive measures are available. Monoclonal antibody products, such as Nirsevimab and Palivizumab, provide passive immunity by transferring pre-made antibodies to the baby, offering protection against the virus. A maternal RSV vaccine can also be administered during pregnancy to pass protective antibodies to the newborn, offering protection for the first few months of life.