Can My Baby Get RSV Twice?

Parents and caregivers of young children should know all about RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, by now! In addition to it being particularly dangerous to infants, it is more prevalent already this year than it normally is.

Our goal is to always keep you and your family as healthy as possible, regardless of the season. If you have a small child in your home, read on as our AFC Urgent Care Bronx Webster Ave. team explains all about RSV and its dangers below.

Is It Possible to Avoid RSV?

Like any illness, RSV can infect anyone at any time. It is a really common virus, so chances are that your child will come into contact with it before his or her second birthday. The unfortunate thing about RSV is that your baby certainly can get it more than once. It is even possible to get it twice in a single season!

RSV is particularly dangerous to infants and small children because of their small airways and breathing passages. Any sort of inflammation or irritation can be really dangerous to a baby, so it is important to watch any symptom progression closely.

Beginning Signs of an RSV Infection

  • Congestion
  • Runny nose
  • Cough/wheezing
  • Sore throat

What Are the Dangers of RSV?

Since RSV is an infection that your baby can get more than once, it is important to do what you can to keep him or her healthy throughout the year. However, if you start to notice the above symptoms, it is time to watch closely for the emergence of a more severe infection.

If your child starts to experience more serious symptoms like trouble breathing, this is considered a medical emergency and you need to seek immediate medical attention. Respiratory distress can look like shallow breathing, chest retractions, belly breathing or a pale or gray pallor to the skin.

Health Practices for the Season

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze.
  • Avoid kissing your baby on the face if you are sick.
  • Don’t let others kiss your baby.

Wondering whether your child’s symptoms are RSV-related? Stop by AFC Urgent Care Bronx Webster Ave. for a diagnosis.