'Parents should be really astute to any changes, like in their activity and their appetite, and then pay particular attention to any signs of respiratory distress,' one expert advised.
Symptoms may look like a common cold: a runny nose, a decreased appetite, coughing, sneezing, fever and wheezing. Young infants may seem only irritable or lethargic and have trouble breathing."Fevers are really hit or miss with RSV infections, especially in young infants," said Dr. Priya Soni, assistant professor of pediatric infectious diseases at Cedars Sinai Medical Center.
Since it's not easy for parents to tell the difference between respiratory illnesses like, say, RSV and flu, it's good to take a sick child to a pediatrician, who can run tests to pinpoint the cause.When it comes to RSV, parents should be especially cautious if their children are preemies, newborns, children with weakened immune systems or neuromuscular disorders, and those under age 2 with chronic lung and heart conditions, the CDC says.
"RSV can make kids very dehydrated, especially when they're not eating or drinking, especially when we're talking infants," Mora said. "Once they stop eating or their urine output has decreased, they're not having as many wet diapers, this is a sign they may have to go to the pediatrician or emergency department."
Mora said labored breathing is a sign that a child is having trouble with this virus. RSV can turn into more serious illnesses such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia, and that can lead to respiratory failure. A thin tube may need to be inserted into their lungs to remove mucus. A child can get extra oxygen through a mask or through a tube that attaches to their nose. Some children may need to use an oxygen tent. Those who are struggling a lot may need a ventilator.The best ways to prevent RSV infections, doctors say, is to teach kids to cough and sneeze into a tissue or into their elbows rather than their hands. Also try to keep frequently touched surfaces clean.
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