How to Prevent RSV in Babies

RSV infections hospitalize over 55,000 young children every year. But no need to worry –  we’re here to help you navigate the early days of parenthood and keep your little one from getting sick. Keep scrolling to learn how to prevent RSV in babies. 

What is RSV?

Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is a common respiratory virus that infects the nose, throat, and lungs. At first, the symptoms appear like a common cold or the flu. But unlike the flu, RSV can be especially serious for infants, older adults, and anyone with a compromised immune system.

Be looking out for these RSV symptoms: 

• Fever

• Cough

• Wheezing

• Runny nose

• Faster than normal breathing

• Retractions above the clavicles and between the ribs

• Nostril flares 

RSV spreads through coughs and sneezes. So, the best way to guarantee RSV prevention in babies is to always avoid any sneezing or coughing around your little ones. Of course, that’s easier said than done. Luckily, there are other ways to prevent the spread of RSV in newborns. 

How to Prevent RSV in Babies

Knowing how to prevent RSV in babies isn’t talked about enough, but super important to know. A few things you can expect to do are:

• Avoid being around anyone who is sick, even if it’s just a slightly runny nose. 

• Wash your hands and your child’s hands often with soap for at least 20 seconds.

• Clean and disinfect surfaces that are touched frequently, like doorknobs and phones. 

• Cover every cough and sneeze.

RSV tends to pop up in the fall and winter months. Since it’s so common, there’s a good chance you could come into contact with it. That’s why it’s so important to protect yourself and others, and know exactly what to do if you do get sick. 

How to Treat RSV in Babies

For mild symptoms of RSV, you can treat your little one at home by:

• Using a nasal syringe to clear a stuffy nose

• Keeping a cool mist humidifier handy to create moist air

• Maintaining a comfortable room temperature 

• Trying saline nasal drops to clear the sinuses

• Using over-the-counter acetaminophen to ease fevers if age appropriate

When symptoms become prolonged and severe – like when wheezing or breathing troubles start – you should visit your pediatrician or ER for more advanced treatment. 

And even when symptoms are mild, always consult your pediatrician to be on the safe side. 

Infant Care Experts in Lubbock - Help You Can Trust!

As the fall months approach and sickness begins to spread, it’s important to have support for you and your baby. Our team of Nurses and Nightingales – available day and night – is ready to support your family as you navigate parenthood. Our team is extremely cautious around our tiny clients and will never work if they show any signs of illness.  

Caring for a newborn is a full-time job. And that’s why our services offer some reprieve from working around the clock – so you can get some rest, and know your baby is being well-cared for while you do. Learn more about our services on our website and contact us to begin receiving newborn care.