RSV–Three Letters New Parents Need to Know, #RSVProtection, #spon

Do you know what RSV is, or how dangerous it can be to your child?

A recent survey shows only a third of moms can say yes, they do.

Well, if you’re a parent of a newborn, you need to know.

RSV is respiratory syncytial virus that affects nearly two-thirds of all infants by age one and nearly 100% by age two.

It typically leads to cold-like symptoms, but in some babies can lead to major respiratory problems which results in emergency room visits and hospital stays.  In fact, it’s the leading cause of infant hospitalizations and each year leads to approximately 500 deaths.

I know several parents who prayed for their baby’s survival after contracting RSV, and it made for some very long nights in Neonatal Intensive Care Units.

This time of year (Nov. thru March) babies are especially vulnerable.

It’s easily spread from child to child, so children in daycare and school settings, or those with siblings who are, are most at risk.   Preemies are especially vulnerable and it’s important for parents to  be aware of the dangers of RSV, as well as the risks that come with certain child care settings. When possible, parents of high-risk babies may want to look into other options, such as nannies or in-home daycare centers.  That way, the baby’s exposure to dangerous germs can be minimized.

These are symptoms of severe RSV infection that require immediate medical care:

• Coughing or wheezing that does not stop
• Fast or troubled breathing
• Spread-out nostrils and/or a caved-in chest when trying to breathe
• Bluish color around the mouth or fingernails
• Fever (especially if it is over 100.4°F in infants under 3 months of age)

There is no treatment for RSV, so parents need to take preventive steps to help protect their child (wash hands, toys, bedding frequently; avoid crowds and cigarette smoke).

Visit www.RSVProtection.com and follow #RSVProtection on Twitter for more information.

Reader note: “I wrote this review while participating in a campaign for Mom Central Consulting on behalf of MedImmune and I received a promotional item to thank me for my participation.” #spon