It’s natural for new parents to get concerned when their newborn starts coughing or sneezing. However, these symptoms can often be chalked up to minor irritation or general discomfort. ColdThey could also be early signs of a more serious condition: respiratory syncytial virus ,rsv) RSV is a highly contagious virus that can cause severe respiratory infections, especially in infants and young children. RSV can cause serious illnesses including pneumonia and bronchiolitis and is a leading cause of respiratory infections in young infants.

Hence, to understand this condition better, we got in touch with Dr Shreya Dubey – Consultant – Neonatology and Pediatrics, CK Birla Hospital Gurugram, who explained its symptoms and prevention measures.

The initial symptoms of RSV are often similar to those of a common cold, and are often ignored. Dr. Shreya Dubey explains that as the virus progresses, the symptoms can become more severe. Here are some signs to look out for:

Timely recognition of RSV symptoms is important for prompt medical intervention. Early recognition of symptoms can make a significant difference to your child’s health.

Babies may initially show minor cold-like symptoms, such as fever, runny nose, cough and sneezing. While these may seem harmless, they can quickly escalate.

If left unattended, these symptoms can progress to more serious respiratory problems, including difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, and wheezing. It is important to keep a close eye on your child.

Severe RSV can cause dehydration in infants. Look for symptoms such as dry mouth, inability to stop crying when ingested, and decreased urine output. These are warning signs that should not be ignored.

In some cases, the baby’s skin may turn blue, indicating low oxygen levels. This is a serious symptom that requires immediate medical attention.

If your child shows any of these serious symptoms, especially difficulty breathing or blue skin, it is important to seek medical help immediately. Timely treatment can save lives.

Who is at risk?

Dr. Shreya Dube explains that people of all ages are susceptible to RSV, but newborns and infants are particularly at risk. “Severe RSV-related infections are more common in premature infants, infants with weakened immune systems, and infants with underlying medical disorders such as congenital heart disease or chronic lung disease. Because of their ability to bring the virus home, newborns who have older siblings who attend daycare or school are also more vulnerable. Extra precautions should be taken during late fall and early spring, which is typically peak RSV season,” she said.

Preventive measures

Dr Shreya shares some prevention tips to stop the spread of the virus. These include:

Vigilance is key to preventing RSV in newborns, especially during peak seasons. Taking proactive steps can help protect your baby from this potentially serious virus.

Maintaining hygiene is one of the most effective defences against RSV. Regularly washing your hands with soap and water before touching your baby can greatly reduce the risk of spreading the virus.

Risk aversion

Keep your child away from sick individuals and crowded places where infection can easily spread. It is important to limit exposure to potential sources of RSV.

Regularly cleaning surfaces and frequently touched objects can help reduce your baby’s risk of RSV infection.

Health experts may recommend monthly injections of palivizumab for high-risk infants, which is an antibody that helps prevent severe RSV illness. Consult your doctor to see if this preventive measure is right for your baby.

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