RSV
LifeBridge Health Pediatrics has seen a surge in RSV cases, especially in children under the age of 2.
What is RSV?
Respiratory syncytial (sin-SISH-ul) virus is a common virus that affects the nose, throat, and lungs. It usually causes a mild, cold-like illness but it can be serious for some children, causing illnesses such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia.
What are the symptoms of RSV?
RSV may not be severe at first but can get worse. Early symptoms of RSV may include:
- Runny nose
- Decrease in appetite
- Cough, which may lead to wheezing or difficulty breathing
In infants under the age of six months, symptoms may include:
- Irritability
- Decreased activity
- Decreased appetite
- Apnea (pauses in breathing more than 10 seconds)
Fever may not always occur with RSV infections.
How can you help your child be healthy?
- Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer often.
- Cover your coughs and sneezes.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and face.
- Do not kiss or share cups and utensils with people who have cold symptoms.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces that are touched often, such as toys, cellphones, and doorknobs
When should I seek help?
Call your pediatrician if your child is:
- Having difficulty breathing
- Not drinking enough fluids
- Experiencing worsening symptoms (cough, fever)
Follow your doctor’s advice.
Your pediatrician’s office or pediatric urgent care is a good option for most patients, keeping the Emergency Department option for the sicker kids who need it the most.
Children’s Urgent Care, part of LifeBridge Health’s Express Care Urgent Care Centers, has three locations: Towson, Bel Air and Westminster: https://ucc4kids.com/
Flu Vaccine:
Influenza A and B are also on the rise in many parts of the country, and we are seeing an uptick in Maryland as well. Please get yourself and your children vaccinated against the flu as well.
In the News:
Watch our pediatricians on the news to learn more information and stay up to date: