“I participated in an Influencer Activation on behalf of Influence Central for MedImmune. I received product samples to facilitate my review as well as a promotional item to thank me for my participation.”
As I sit here typing this post and trying to recover from a pretty awful cold, I can only imagine how dangerous it would be if a premature child were suffering from similar symptoms like those of RSV Disease.
My youngest sister was born premature and I can remember all the precautions that were taken to keep her healthy and isolated from the germs from outside of her sterile environment. I even recall my middle sister and me for weeks visiting the hospital and looking through the observation glass at our families’ new edition.
Those times may have been 27 years ago, however in those moments there was a lot of concern for my sister’s well-being and it still makes me cry even when I think about it today.
RSV or Respiratory Syncytial Virus is a common seasonal viral disease that may infect a person’s lungs and breathing passages. It is contracted by nearly all children by the age of 2 and usually presents as cold like symptoms.
However for a premature baby, severe complications can develop through coughing and wheezing, breathing issues, and fever. It may even present as a bluish color around the mouth or fingernails.
Since RSV is highly contagious, prevention is the key and by following simple tips, you can help your child avoid this potentially fatal disease.
1. Wash your hands thoroughly before touching your baby, and ask others to do the same
2. Don’t let anyone smoke in your home, or near your baby
3. Wash your baby’s toys, clothes, and bedding often
4. Keep your baby away from Crowds, young children, and individuals with colds
If you suspect that your little one may have this disease, immediately contact your health care provider.
Have you heard of Respiratory Syncytial Virus disease before? What new facts have you learned about RSV?
To learn more about RSV and Real Families’ Experiences with the disease, visit rsvprotection.com.
World Prematurity Day is November 17th. This will be a day to not only reflect on my sisters precious life, but to also think about how we all can protect premature babies from dangerous diseases like RSV.
FFM
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