Respiratory Syncytial Virus

[Angel]

If you knew what RSV ( Respiratory Syncytial Virus ) disease could do to your preemine, it would take your breath away.

A very common, highly contagious and potentially serious virus

Each year, more than 125,000 babies are hospitalized with RSV disease. Sadly, some of these babies will die.

RSV is a virus that infects almost all children before the age of two. Most get cold-like symptoms and fight off the virus easily. Some infants, especially premature infants, become seriously ill because their lungs aren't fully developed and their bodies can't fight infection as well...



You should be especially aware of RSV if your baby:

• Was born prematurely ( more than four weeks early )
• Has lung disease
• Has heart disease
• Goes to child care or day care
• Has school-age brothers or sisters at home
• Is exposed to tobacco smoke

You can help prevent RSV disease in your infant

Serious RSV disease is preventable. As the parent of a premature infant, you can help to protect your baby from being hospitalized dur to RSV disease.

• Keep sick children and adults away from your baby during the RSV season ( Fall through Spring in most areas of the U.S. )
• Don't allow smoking in your home or near your baby
• Always wash your hands with soap and warm water before touching your baby.
• If your infant was born prematurely , ask your health care provider about a medication that help prevent RSV disease.

For more information, please call the RSV hotline at 1-877-906-7085 or visit our website: www.rsvprotection.com


Source: Parents

 

[Oceanbreeze]

Good thread, ^Angel^.

My neice contracted RSV when she was 5 mos old. She was put in the hospital, and given meds to help her breathe. Spent 5 days there, I believe. She got over it, but it was a scary time for all of us. Btw, she was full term, and her lungs are normal, but she also lives with parents who smoke, and she has also been in a daycare since she was 6 wks old.