LEARN THE ABC'S OF RSV AND HOW TO PREVENT IT {Sponsored}

Every winter, from November to March, parents of newborns and very young infants worry about each and every cold, virus or flu turning into that dreaded Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).

RSV is one of the most common infant illnesses there is and it is also a highly contagious virus. Nearly 100 percent of all babies will have caught and suffered thru RSV by their second birthday. There is no treatment for the RSV virus once it’s contracted, so prevention is the first step. 

Prevention Tips:

• Wash their hands and ask others to do the same
• Keep toys, clothes, blanket and sheets clean
• Avoid crowds and other young children during RSV season
• Never let anyone smoke around your baby
• Steer clear of people who are sick or who have recently been sick
• Speak to your child’s pediatrician to determine if your baby is at high risk for RSV disease, and if so, what additional steps may be recommended.

While in most cases infants will recover from RSV with no complications. However, preterm infants who have underdeveloped lungs and immature immune systems are at a higher risk of contracting the RSV virus and having complications. Data on this virus also indicates pre-term infants from African-American and Hispanic communities are at an increased risk of contracting a more severe form of RSV. 

Parents of  preemies can protect their babies by learning the ABCs of RSV, and when to contact their doctor.

• A is for Awareness: The first step in fighting this disease is to be aware of the RSV disease and to keep a close eye on your baby when they catch a cold, the flu or a virus.
• B is for Babies: Preemies are at a very high risk of developing RSV. Preemie status is defined as those born before 37 weeks gestation. They are at a higher risk and should be watched very carefully because they have underdeveloped lungs and fewer antibodies to fight the virus than full term babies.
• C is for Contagious: Keep in mind that RSV is very contagious and can be spread easily through touching, sneezing and coughing. Protect your baby by learning what the symptoms are of severe RSV disease and if your baby exhibits these symptoms contact your child’s pediatrician immediately.

Symptoms to Watch for:

• Persistent coughing or wheezing
• Bluish color around the mouth or fingernails
• Rapid, difficult, or gasping breaths
• Fever [especially if it is over 100.4°F (rectal) in infants under 3 months of age]

For more information about RSV and prevention, visit www.RSVprotection.com

* This is a sponsored post.