"Tis the Season to be Wheezing"

RSV stands for respiratory syncytial virus. This virus circulates this time of year and is especially prevalent among day cares and schools. Infection with RSV can be serious in young infants and children with chronic lung conditions such as asthma or cystic fibrosis.
Symptoms include profuse runny nose, cough, congestion and in more serious cases wheezing. Older children tend to only exhibit cold like symptoms. Young infants, especially premature infants are more likely to become seriously ill. They may wheeze, have trouble feeding and have trouble breathing. Children with chronic lung conditions are also more likely to exhibit the more serious symptoms.
The key to prevention is to regular hand washing. If you have a young infant or high risk child then no one with cold symptoms should visit your home or be around your child. Older school age siblings with cold symptoms should stay away from younger siblings and their playthings.
Premature infants may be eligible to receive a monthly vaccine to protect them against RSV called synagis. This is decided on a case by case basis and needs to be discussed with your doctor.
RSV can survive for long periods of time on counter surfaces and doorknobs so disinfecting these areas is important. Be sure to wash pacifiers and toys with hot soapy water or run through te dish washer if possible. If your child attends daycare ask about their RSV policy and what precautions they take to prevent spreading the virus.

....TJB