Peak Child's approach to RSV
WHAT IS RSV?
Respiratory syncytial (pronounced "sin-SISH-ul") virus or RSV causes infections of the lungs and respiratory tract. It's so common that most children have been infected with the virus by age 2. RSV can also infect adults. In adults and older, healthy children, RSV symptoms are mild and typically mimic the common cold. Self-care measures are usually all that's needed to relieve any discomfort.
​
RSV can cause severe infection in babies and infants, especially premature infants, older adults, people with heart and lung disease, or anyone with a weak immune system (immunocompromised).
​
HOW DO I KNOW IF MY CHILD HAS IT?
Symptoms most commonly appear about four to six days after exposure to the virus. RSV usually causes mild cold-like signs and symptoms including runny nose, dry cough, low-grade fever, sore throat, sneezing or headache.
Symptoms of severe RSV infection in babies and infants include short, shallow and rapid breathing, struggling to breathe, cough, poor feeding, unusual tiredness or irritability.
​
WHAT ACTION SHOULD I TAKE?
Most children and adults recover in one to two weeks, although some might have repeated wheezing. If your child is showing symptoms of severe RSV infection you should see a doctor immediately. Severe or life-threatening infection requiring a hospital stay may occur in premature infants or in anyone who has chronic heart or lung problems.
​