Hospitals are full of #RSV right now, peaking a little early and joined by many other viruses, placing strain on Children’s hospitals nationwide. A 🧵on RSV…
#RSV is a common cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in kids < 2 yrs. Those tiny, mucus-filled airways cause cough, sneeze, wheeze, and sometimes fever. Breathing faster or ⬆️ work of breathing needs exam by pediatrician.
Kids are contagious for 3-8 days, so try to stay home if sick! #RSV also lives on surfaces, so wash hands 🧼 and disinfect high-touch objects.
Most babies are sick for 7-10 days, but days #3-5 are worst. And the cough can last 14-21 days! #RSV
Hydration is key! 1 wet diaper every 8 hrs min. Also, use nasal saline + suction, cool mist humidifier, and antipyretic if needed. #RSV #supportivecare
Most kids with #RSV will NOT be hospitalized. So stay home if your child is doing well. No need to “just check it out” if breathing comfortably, hydrating, and fever < 3 days.
Some babies are high risk: premature babies, heart/lung dz, immunocompromised. They should consider ppx with Palivizumab, so talk to your pediatrician! #RSV
Antibiotics don’t treat #RSV. Love, time, fluids, & mist are your friends. Pediatricians will always be here when those aren’t working.
Important to add that adults get #RSV too! I don’t treat them, but know that their symptoms are usually mild and they can easily spread them to vulnerable others. A “mild” cold for a healthy adult can be deadly for an infant.
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