If you’re a parent, you’ve probably heard about RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) – and if you haven’t, we’re here to help! RSV is a common virus that affects the lungs and breathing passages, and while most kids get a mild case, it can be serious for infants and young children.
At Newport Children’s Medical Group, we know how stressful it can be when your little one isn’t feeling their best, so we’re breaking down everything you need to know about RSV and how you can keep your child safe, especially during peak seasons. Here are essential RSV prevention tips to protect your child’s health.
What is RSV, and Why Should Parents Be Concerned?
RSV is a highly contagious and preventative virus that causes cold-like symptoms, but in some cases, it can lead to more severe health illnesses like bronchiolitis or pneumonia, especially in babies under 12 months old.
Common Symptoms of RSV:
- Runny nose
- Coughing and sneezing
- Fever (usually mild)
- Decreased appetite
- Wheezing or trouble breathing (in severe cases)
Most children will recover from RSV in one to two weeks, but for some, it can mean a trip to the ER or even hospitalization. That’s why prevention is the most important. If your child has one or more of the RSV symptoms above, contact your primary care doctor immediately to make sure your child stays healthy.
How is it Spread?
RSV spreads just like the common cold – through coughing, sneezing, and touching contaminated surfaces. It can survive on hands for 30 minutes and on surfaces like toys and doorknobs for several hours.
Tips to Prevent RSV in and Protect Children
The good news? There are plenty of ways to prevent RSV in children.
1. Wash Those Hands – A Lot
Frequent handwashing with soap and water is one of the easiest and most effective ways to stop the spread of RSV. Make it a fun game with your child by singing their favorite song while scrubbing.
2. Keep Hands (and Toys) Clean
Regularly sanitize toys, high chairs, and anything your baby loves to put in their mouth. RSV germs love to hang out on surfaces.
3. Avoid Sick People
If someone has a cough or cold, keep your child at a safe distance. RSV is super contagious, and little ones have developing immune systems that can’t fight off infections as well as adults.
4. Teach “Cough & Sneeze Etiquette”
Encourage your child (and family members) to cough or sneeze into their elbow instead of their hands – it’s a simple habit that makes a big difference.
5. Limit Exposure in Crowded Places
During peak RSV season (fall and winter), avoid unnecessary trips to daycare, playgroups, or crowded indoor spaces where the virus spreads easily.
6. Breastfeeding for Extra Protection
For infants, breastfeeding provides important antibodies that help fight infections, including RSV. If breastfeeding isn’t an option, talk to your pediatrician about other ways to boost your baby’s immune system.
7. Consider RSV Prevention Shots
If your baby is premature, has lung or heart conditions, or is under six months old during RSV season, your pediatrician may recommend monoclonal antibody injections to help prevent severe RSV infections.
When to See a Doctor
Most RSV cases in children can be managed at home with rest, fluids, and fever reducers, but you should seek medical attention immediately if your child experiences:
- Fast, labored, or wheezing breathing
- Bluish lips or fingernails (signs of low oxygen)
- Dehydration (fewer wet diapers, dry mouth, no tears when crying)
- Extreme fatigue or difficulty waking up
These could be signs of a serious RSV infection that requires urgent medical care.
Contact Newport Children’s Medical Group’s Primary Care Doctors Today
RSV is a part of childhood, but with a little extra care and prevention, you can significantly lower your child’s risk of getting seriously ill. If you have any questions or concerns, our team at Newport Children’s Medical Group is always here to help protect and provide for your children. Contact a pediatric pulmonologist at Newport Children’s Medical Group today for assistance!