If you have a small child or infant at home, chances are that you have probably heard of the dangers of RSV before. Many babies come down with the illness every year, and it can be really severe and even dangerous for some.

Keeping your baby safe from RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, is all about watching symptom progression and taking action when you notice any dangerous symptoms developing. Our team at AFC Urgent Care TN helps you better understand what to look out for below.

How Does RSV Attack the Body?

A baby’s lungs and breathing passages are so tiny that they are susceptible to any type of irritation or inflammation. When RSV settles in, it irritates the soft and sensitive tissues in the baby’s upper respiratory tract. Any type of inflammation is really dangerous to those tiny airways!

RSV can also infiltrate the lower respiratory tract and lead to other illnesses like pneumonia or bronchiolitis, making an already dangerous situation even more delicate. When a baby starts to feel unwell from RSV, usually he or she will start to present with mild cold-like symptoms.

Mild RSV Symptoms

• Runny nose
• Decreased appetite
• Wheezing or coughing
• Fever

What RSV Symptoms Indicate a Severe Infection?

Severe RSV infections can be really scary and very dangerous to your little one. Even if he or she starts out with mild symptoms, they can become dangerous and widespread really quickly so it is important to watch for any worsening conditions.

One of the most serious indications is if your baby starts to exhibit trouble breathing. This could look like shallow or rapid breathing, chest retractions and a change in skin color (bluish or gray). Any of these symptoms indicate an emergency and you should take your baby for medical attention right away.

Protect Your Baby From RSV

• Cover your cough or sneeze.
• Avoid kissing your baby on the face if you are sick.
• Don’t let other people kiss your baby.
• Wash your hands often.
• Ask people to wash their hands before holding your baby.
  

RSV should always be taken seriously. If you are concerned about the health of your infant, come visit us right away at one of our AFC Urgent Care TN locations.