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Cold and Flu season is here and so is RSV. Is your child at risk?
RSV or respiratory syncytial virus is a contagious viral disease that may infect a person’s lungs and breathing passages. According to RSVProtection.com, most people recover from this disease in a week or two, and for most infants RSV causes an illness like a common cold. Even after recovery, infants and children can continue to spread the virus for 1 to 3 weeks. I have heard of RSV, but had no idea that it could potentially be a problem.
As mentioned in the title of this post, World Prematurity Day is November 17th. This is important in regards to RSV because premature infants (babies born prematurely at 35 week or less) or those with lung or heart problems are at a higher risk of developing this disease along with a potentially serious lung infection and hospitalization.
This post is not meant to frighten, but to bring awareness to this potentially life threatening disease.
My youngest sister was premature and I remember how small and delicate she was. I recall singing to her “Sara” by Jefferson Airplane (her name) through the hospital glass and really wanting to see her up close. As a parent I now realize just how important it was that they kept me and my other sibling away. With all the potentially harmful germs we carried, it was definitely best to keep on the safe side.
Signs of RSV Disease in Infants.
Not sure what you are looking for in regards to RSV and your baby? Symptoms include a persistent cough or wheezing, rapid or difficult gasping breaths, bluish color around the lips, mouth, or finger tips, and fever. Immediately contact your physician if you are concerned that your child may have this disease.
You can help prevent RSV Disease with these tips.
RSV disease is spread just as easily as the flu, and can be contracted by sneezing, coughing, and touching. Although there is no cure for RSV disease taking extra precautions can help to protect your baby.
- Wash your hands thoroughly before touching your baby, and ask others to do the same
- Don’t let anyone smoke in your home, or near your baby
- Wash your baby’s toys, clothes, and bedding often
- Keep your baby away from:
— Crowds and young children
— People with colds
Have you heard of RSV before? Have you been personally touched by this disease or know of anyone who has?
Concerned about your own child’s health or want to share these details with others? Visit RSVProtection.com for additional information.
FFM
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