What You Should Know About
Respiratory Syncytial Virus
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the most common cause of lower respiratory infections in infants and young children. The infections it causes can range from the common cold to pneumonia and bronchiolitis. About 90,000 infants and young children are hospitalized with RSV each year in the United States, and in a small number, the infection is fatal. Usually, the most serious infections are in premature babies less than 6 months old or children with a weakened immune system or chronic lung or heart disease.
An RSV infection can occur at any time of year, but widespread outbreaks typically arise during the winter and peak in January and February. The virus spreads from person to person just like an ordinary cold virus: from coughs, sneezes, and transferring the virus from your hands to your eyes or nose.
In most cases, and particularly in older children, RSV causes a mild, cold-like respiratory infection with a stuffy nose, runny nose, coughing, wheezing, and sometimes an ear infection or a sinus infection.
Treatment and Tips
Because it's a virus, RSV can't be treated with antibiotics. Instead, the infected child will need supportive care as for any other type of cold. For a serious infection, the child may need hospitalization and assistance with breathing. Certain high-risk children may receive a medication that fights viruses as well.
Children under age 2 who have lung problems caused by premature birth or bronchopulmonary dysplasia may receive one of two medications that help to prevent serious RSV disease. Both medications are given in five monthly doses, one by intravenous (into the vein) line and the other by injection.
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