The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is one of the most common viruses that cause respiratory illness in babies. Most children will get RSV at least once before they turn two. Although RSV infection is like a cold in most cases, it can get quite serious in some children requiring urgent treatment.

We have state-of-the-art facilities at Express Emergency Room, Abilene, TX, to help babies with severe RSV infections.

What Is RSV?

RSV infection in babies affects the nose, throat, and lungs. The RSV infections peak in fall and early spring but can also occur at other times. Although RSV cases plummeted during the COVID-19 pandemic, thanks to social distancing and masks, they have made a comeback this year.

The initial symptoms of RSV resemble the common cold, but it may also lead to severe bronchitis or pneumonia in some cases. Typically, the symptoms last about seven days before resolving in most children.

Some of the symptoms of RSV include-

• Fever higher than 100.40F
• Cough (wet or dry)
• Runny nose, congestion, and sneezing
• Loss of appetite
• Fast breathing or wheezing
• Rhythmic grunting while breathing

Risk Factors For Developing Severe RSV Infections

While almost all babies can be infected with RSV, some are at a higher risk of developing a severe infection. Risk factors for developing severe RSV in children include the following:

• If your baby is 12 weeks or younger at the start of the RSV season
• Premature babies born before 29 weeks of gestation
• Babies with certain heart ailments
• Babies with weaker immunity
• History of allergies and eczema

At Express Emergency Room Abilene, TX, RSV treatment in infants with the above risk factors starts immediately to prevent severe infections.

How Does RSV Spread?

RSV spreads like the common cold- from one person to the other. RSV in adults can also be transmitted to children. The most common mode of transmission include:

• Person-to-person contact
• Dirty hands (RSV is viable for 30 minutes on unwashed hands)
• Unclean surfaces, RSV can survive for 6 hours on surfaces like toys, mats, and utensils.

When to seek emergency care?

The RSV symptoms are at their worst on days 5-7 of the infection. Upper respiratory tract RSV infections typically don’t need immediate care, and the symptoms will resolve without intervention. However, if the infection spreads to the lower respiratory tract, it can be a sign of concern.

If your baby has difficulty breathing, evidenced by chest wall retractions or caving in of the rib cage, you might want to visit an ER near you. Some symptoms indicate that your baby might need pneumonia RSV treatment in Abilene, TX, including the following-

• Labored or difficulty in breathing
• Tongue, skin, or lips turn gray or blue
• A fever above 100.40F in the case of infants or 1040F in children of any age
• Chest pain, ear tugging, or ear drainage

Our 24-hour emergency room in Abilene, TX, can provide emergency care to babies with severe RSV infections. Visit Express Emergency Room for more information.