I participated in an Influencer Activation on behalf of Influence Central for MedImmune. I received product samples to facilitate my review as well as a promotional item to thank me for my participation. #MC, #RSVAwareness and #PreemieProtection
Every parent needs to know the facts about RSV. This common virus affects nearly 100% of babies by the time they turn 2 years old. Most healthy, full term babies will experience mild to moderate cold-like symptoms. Premature infants (babies born before 37 weeks gestation) are at a higher risk for developing severe RSV – which can lead to hospitalization and even death.
RSV epidemics take place between November and March, although it can vary by geography and year to year.
RSV is the #1 cause of infant hospitalization during the first year of life. In the US, there are about 125,000 babies hospitalized with RSV per year, and up to 200 infant deaths. The disease is common, but most parents have never even heard of the virus.
KNOW THE SIGNS OF SEVERE RSV SYMPTOMS
Contact your child’s pediatrician immediately if they are experiencing one or more of the following symptoms:
1. Persistent coughing or wheezing
2. Bluish color around the mouth or fingernails
3. Rapid, difficult or gasping breath
4. Fever, especially if it is over 100.4 (rectal) in infants under 3 months of age
There is no treatment specific for RSV. Prevention is critical.
PROTECT YOUR BABY FROM RSV
RSV is extremely contagious. It is easily spread through coughing, sneezing and touching. The virus can live on surfaces for hours. Prevent the spread of RSV by:
1. Washing your hands.
2. Keep toys, clothes, blankets, and sheets clean.
3. Avoid crowds and other young children during RSV season (November to March).
4. NEVER let anyone smoke around your baby. EVER.
5. Stay away from people who are sick or have recently been sick.
World Prematurity Day is November 17. One in ten babies born into this world is a preemie! RSV is one of the many issues facing these little ones and their families. We can raise awareness by sharing the facts about RSV with our families and friends. We can remember to be respectful around all babies, and stay away from them if we are sick.
I had never heard of RSV until a few years ago, when a good friend’s baby was hospitalized with RSV. It was a very scary time for their family. That baby was part of a group of children at the same daycare who contracted RSV. Thankfully, my friend’s baby quickly recovered from RSV – but I have been hyper aware of RSV ever since that time.
I have a friend who is expecting a new baby any day now. She’ll be a new mom, and she has probably never heard of RSV. One way I can help is to tell her about RSV and share the RSV Prevention website with her. Parents everywhere need to be aware of the signs and symptoms of RSV, and never hesitate to call their child’s pediatrician with any concerns.
For more information about RSV and Prevention, visit RSVPrevention.com
Scarlet says
Wow. That was educational. I had never even heard of RSV before!