Get to know RSV which is prone to occur in babies

Get to know RSV which is prone to occur in babies

Erratic weather that tends to rain has an impact on the baby's health so that the baby's health becomes vulnerable. However, sometimes the child's immune system weakens so that viruses can easily attack them. One virus that often infects children (and babies) and can seem frightening to mothers is RSV.

RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is a common respiratory virus that infects the lungs and respiratory tract. This virus usually causes swelling and inflammation of the breathing tubes, or bronchioles, which is called bronchiolitis.

RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in children under 1 year of age and causes considerable illness. And for babies under 6 months, this virus is quite dangerous because it can cause death. In some cases, children have to be hospitalized because of this virus.

Symptoms of RSV in Babies

Retraction

Never ignore signs of difficulty breathing in babies such as very fast breathing, using a lot of extra muscles to breathe, pulling the neck, nostrils in and out, or being able to see between the ribs when breathing which is called retraction.

Wet Diapers Fewer Than Usual

Checking the baby's diaper will also increase alertness. Any baby whose diaper has not been wet for more than 6-8 hours should be rushed to the doctor immediately as a warning sign of dehydration. Unlike most childhood illnesses, dehydration from RSV in infants is not caused by high fever or vomiting.

Blue Tint Around Lips and Nails

Any bluish discoloration of the skin is a sign of concern. These are signs that the baby may need additional oxygen or respiratory support and should be rushed to the emergency room immediately.

Apnea

Apnea, or periods of time during which the baby is not breathing, is a critical symptom in infants under 6 months of age.

Poor Breastfeeding Conditions

When experiencing RSV in infants, your little one will feel very congested so they cannot breastfeed properly. If your baby is having trouble suckling, the first thing to do is monitor his diaper. Breastfeed your baby frequently, even for a short time, so that their nutritional needs are met properly.

Why RSV affects babies:

• Babies have immunity that is susceptible to disease
• Infants and children who have congenital heart disease from birth
• Babies born prematurely
• Babies aged 8 to 10 weeks

RSV can be transmitted by:

• An infected person coughs or sneezes
• Getting droplets from an infected person in the eyes, nose or mouth
• Direct contact with the virus such as touching the face without washing hands
• Kissing the face of an infected chil

RSV infection that is not treated immediately will be even more dangerous and can cause bronchitis, inflammation in the lungs, to pneumonia. This is common in children aged 1 year.

There is no cure for RSV in babies other than letting the virus run its course. Immediately go to the hospital so that your little one is given proper treatment.

With prompt intervention and skilled care, the danger signs of RSV in infants will mostly go away and improve within a few weeks.