Bronchitis is an infection of the lungs and respiratory system in children under two years old. This infection can be caused by different viruses, such as influenza, parainfluenza, adenovirus or metapneumovirus, but the most common is respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
These infections can occur year-round but are more common in coldest month (Between November and April). It spreads in a similar way to a cold. It is produced through close contact with saliva or mucus. The bacteria spread when an infected person sneezes, coughs or laughs. Also, when you touch objects that have germs on them, such as tissues or toys.
Colds can become complicated
The incubation period is usually about 7 days and usually begins with the following symptoms: common cold (Some cough, mucus and congestion, sometimes fever). In the most favorable cases, the disease disappears between the seventh and twelfth days.However, in the worst cases, the disease usually worsens after the third day and may last several weeks.
When this happens, your child will cough harder and breathe faster and with difficulty. Additionally, there may be a whistling or deeper sound when breathing due to inflammation of the bronchial tubes.
If you also have vomiting, fluid retention, if you become very tired or stop eating, if you feel sleepier than usual, or if your skin color changes, you should contact doctor.
As a treatment, the only measures considered effective are Moderate. antipyretics to reduce fever, hydration and washed nose. Using a humidifier may also be helpful.
Likewise, most of Spain’s autonomous regions recently approved a drug for use in children under six months old to combat the disease. Specifically, Beyfortus (nirsevimab) is an injectable monoclonal antibody that gives babies immune protection for five months.