Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a widespread respiratory virus that can affect individuals of all ages, but it poses a particular concern for infants. While many cases of RSV are mild, resembling a common cold, it can progress to more severe illness in young children, sometimes requiring hospitalization. Each year, an estimated 58,000 to 80,000 children younger than 5 years old are hospitalized due to RSV in the United States. Understanding the progression of symptoms and when to seek medical help is important for parents.
Recognizing RSV Symptoms in Infants
RSV symptoms in infants often mimic those of a common cold, appearing four to six days after exposure to the virus. These early signs can include a runny nose, mild cough, and sneezing. An infant might also show a decreased appetite.
As the illness progresses, a cough may develop, potentially leading to wheezing or difficulty breathing. Infants under six months old might display more general symptoms such as irritability, decreased activity, or pauses in breathing lasting more than 10 seconds, known as apnea. Many infants with RSV may not develop a fever.
Critical Signs for Hospitalization
When RSV infection spreads to the lower respiratory tract, it can cause more severe conditions like bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways) or pneumonia (a lung infection). Signs include rapid, shallow, or difficult breathing. This can manifest as flaring nostrils (nostrils widening with each breath) or chest retractions (skin pulling inward around the ribs or collarbone).
Wheezing, a high-pitched whistling sound typically heard when breathing out, is another sign of respiratory distress. A bluish tint around the mouth or fingernails, known as cyanosis, signals a lack of oxygen. Parents should also monitor for signs of dehydration, such as a significant decrease in wet diapers. Extreme fussiness or unusual lethargy, where the baby is unusually tired or difficult to wake, warrants immediate medical evaluation.
What Happens During Hospitalization for RSV
If a baby is hospitalized for RSV, the care focuses primarily on supportive measures to help them breathe and recover. One common intervention is oxygen therapy, delivered via a mask, nasal prongs, or an oxygen tent. Intravenous (IV) fluids are often administered to maintain hydration.
Nasal passages may be suctioned to clear mucus and improve breathing. Hospital staff will closely monitor the baby’s breathing, oxygen levels, and overall condition. While most infants improve with this supportive care, some may require mechanical ventilation, a machine to assist with breathing. Hospital stays for RSV typically last a few days.
Protecting Your Baby from RSV
Preventing RSV infection involves several practical measures. Frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and water is an effective way to reduce the spread of viruses. Avoid close contact between your baby and individuals who are sick, even if they only have mild cold symptoms.
Regularly cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, like doorknobs and toys, can help eliminate virus particles. Exposure to tobacco smoke should be avoided around infants, as it can worsen respiratory conditions. Breastfeeding can provide antibodies that offer some protection to infants. During peak RSV seasons, often in the fall and winter, keeping babies home from daycare can further reduce exposure risk.