Given the potential for children around the age of two to develop symptoms from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) (respiratory syncytial virus) infection, experts recommend learning how to recognize possible symptoms such as runny nose, decreased appetite, coughing, sneezing, fever and wheezing (wheezing while breathing).
People with RSV infection usually develop symptoms within 4 to 6 days of infection, and usually in stages rather than all at once.
In very young babies, the only symptoms may be restlessness, decreased activity, and shortness of breath.
One of the main recommendations is to call a healthcare professional if someone in the household (whether adult or minor) develops breathing difficulties or worsening symptoms.
Antiviral medications are usually not recommended to fight these infections because most infections go away on their own within one to two weeks. However, RSV can cause serious illness in some people.
Measures to relieve symptoms
Control fever and pain with fever reducers and over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. (Never give aspirin to children)
Drink enough fluids. It is important for people with RSV infection to drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration
Do not take medicines without consulting a healthcare provider
RSV can lead to more serious health problems
RSV can also cause more serious infections such as bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lungs) and pneumonia (infection of the lungs).
This virus is the most common cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in children under 1 year old.