dehydrated because it’s hard to feed when they’re so stuffed up.
Some babies may also need oxygen support as well.
“The most important thing is to know when to get help for your child: if they’re having trouble breathing, not able to eat or appear more tired than usual,” Wardono said.
What treatments are available?
A monoclonal antibody called palivizumab is recommended for high-risk babies. These include infants who are premature, or who have chronic lung disease or a significant congenital heart condition, Soni said.
Preventive treatment would be given as a series of vaccines. You can talk to your child’s provider about this option.
Can my child test positive for more than one virus?
“Healthcare experts are worried about the confluence of RSV, flu and COVID-19 as we move into the winter,” Soni said. “The overlap of these three viruses, as well as others, is definitely a big concern for the next few months.”
Doctors are already seeing patients testing positive for more than one virus, Wardono said, recommending that parents make sure kids get their flu shots and COVID-19 boosters where appropriate.
You can also make sure to wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds and have your children do the same.
Children who are in school or a playgroup should change their clothes when they come home before interacting with infants, the doctors recommended.
What else can I do to protect my child?
The CDC recommends:
- Covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your upper shirt sleeve, not your hands
- Avoiding close contact, such as kissing, shaking hands, and sharing cups and eating utensils, with others
- Cleaning frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs and mobile devices
If your child is at high risk of developing RSV, you should help your child do the following:
- Avoid close contact with sick people
- Wash their hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
- Avoid touching their face with unwashed hands
- Limit the time they spend in child-care centers or other potentially contagious settings, especially during fall, winter, and spring. This may help prevent infection and the spread of the virus during the RSV season