RSV: Preventing Respiratory Viruses in Children

Health is a fundamental issue among family groups, especially when it comes to the well-being of children.

In today’s world, where health challenges are increasing due to multiple factors, prevention becomes an invaluable shield.

Such is the case with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a silent enemy that stalks children and endangers their health.

It is estimated that the virus causes nearly 20,000 pediatric emergencies and 7,000 to 14,000 hospitalizations each year in Spain.

In addition, according to the Spanish Pediatric Association, the number of children who die from RSV-related infections in our country every year ranges from 70 to 250.

This virus is a challenge to the medical community; well, almost all children are infected with it at least once before they are 2 years old.

Fortunately, today, significant progress has been made in RSV immunization.

In this article, we’ll discuss RSV and its impact on children’s health while providing you with preventive measures so you don’t have to worry about it knocking on your door at some point.

What is RSV in infants and children?

RSV is a highly contagious virus that commonly affects infants and children.

It tends to cause respiratory infections, meaning it affects the lungs and the “ducts” that carry air to the lungs.

RSV can cause problems such as bronchiolitis, an inflammation of the smaller airways, and lead to pneumonia, a more serious lung infection.

Respiratory syncytial virus is a considerable problem for infants and young children because their immune systems are still developing, making them more vulnerable.

RSV spreads like the common cold virus, entering the body through the nose or eyes, usually through contact with infected saliva, mucus or nasal secretions.

This is the most common reason for hospitalization in children under 1 year old.

In addition to children, RSV affects people over the age of 65 who have at-risk conditions or pre-existing conditions, who may develop more severe symptoms.

How dangerous is the RSV virus?

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can be very dangerous. Especially for babies and young children and people with weakened immune systems.

Although RSV infections often cause symptoms similar to the common cold, in some cases they can cause more serious complications, such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia, that can even be life-threatening.

Both respiratory diseases can cause greater complications in babies due to their immature immune systems.

Common symptoms of these illnesses include difficulty breathing, high fever, and feeding problems. Severe cases require hospitalization.

RSV is a virus that must be taken very seriously and measures taken to prevent its spread, especially in settings with infants and young children.

It is estimated that one in 56 healthy babies in Spain is hospitalized in the first 12 months of life.

Prevention of respiratory viruses in children

To keep children’s health and well-being in perfect condition, it is recommended to follow some guidelines and recommendations to reduce the risk of respiratory infections:

• Start by washing your hands well. Make sure to use enough soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating and after using the toilet.
• These types of illnesses are more common in the winter and fall, and it’s important to avoid contact with sick people during these two seasons.

For infants or young children, avoid visits that may put their health at risk.

• Teach them to cover their nose and mouth when they cough or sneeze to prevent the spread of germs.
• Keep the environment where children spend most of their time well ventilated.
• In order for the immune system to be strong and able to deal with the virus, it is important for children to eat well and get regular and adequate sleep.
• Don’t forget to update your vaccination schedule.

Some vaccines, such as influenza and respiratory syncytial virus vaccines for babies born prematurely or with health problems, can help prevent respiratory infections.

Until recently, RSV was a matter of concern to the medical community. However, in November 2022, Nirsevimab was approved in the EU.

This is a medicine used to prevent respiratory syncytial virus infection in infants and newborns.

In our country, Galicia, Catalonia and Madrid have confirmed the start of prophylactic use of Nirsevimab for all infants in the 2023-2024 season.

What a relief!

What to do if my child gets RSV

If you suspect that your child has respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) or is diagnosed with this infection, it is important to take appropriate steps to care for him or her and help him recover.

Start by talking to your doctor if you have any questions about treating the virus or if you have symptoms such as difficulty breathing or a high fever.

Once the presence of the virus is confirmed, the child must be quarantined. This way you can avoid complications and their spread.

Good nutrition and hydration are essential to relieve symptoms and speed recovery.

Follow all instructions for medications, respiratory treatments, or other treatments recommended by your expert.

Keep the environment clean and disinfect common surfaces, toys, and everyday objects to prevent the spread of viruses at home.

Also store personal items such as towels, bedding, or utensils separately.

Once you beat the virus, keep track of subsequent symptoms to make sure you have fully recovered.

Although RSV poses some risks to your child’s health, by following every medical recommendation and home care, you will see how your child will recover quickly and without major complications.