RSV Infection in Infants

Erica McClannahan, RN, BSN, IBCLC

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) rates are rampant this year, leaving many parents concerned about their babies.  RSV is a respiratory virus (like the common cold or covid-19) that can infect people of any age. Still, those with compromised immune systems and infants under 6 months of age are at the highest risk of having severe, even potentially life-threatening cases.  It’s important to understand how to protect our precious little ones the best we can and to recognize warning signs that it’s time to seek help when they do get sick. 

How Serious is RSV?

The CDC reports that most children will get RSV at some point by the time they are 2 years old.  Most cases are mild, similar to a common cold, but it can also lead to severe illness.  For infants under 6 months of age that are infected with RSV, 1-2% will require hospitalization to receive oxygen and IV fluids and, in the most severe cases, require intubation to help them breathe. 

How Do I Know If My Baby Has RSV?

It can be difficult to know exactly how your baby feels since they can’t let us know with words.  The most common symptoms of RSV in infants are fussiness, lethargy, decreased appetite, runny nose, and coughing or wheezing.  It’s important to be able to recognize other signs of respiratory distress, such as the lips or mouth turning blue or dusky gray, breathing faster or having pauses in breathing, nasal flaring, or chest/stomach straining while breathing.  If you notice any of these symptoms in your child, it’s time to seek medical attention immediately. 

How Do I Protect My Baby From RSV?

There is currently no vaccine or cure for this virus, but there are certain protective measures you can take to reduce the risk of infection.  Since the virus can live on hard surfaces, it’s good to clean and sanitize cups, bottles, toys, and surfaces that your child touches often.  It’s also a good idea for everyone in the household to wash their hands often and avoid being around others who are sick as much as possible.  Unfortunately, daycares are a breeding ground for infection since there are so many children in close proximity, so keeping your child home when they themselves or others in the care center are sick can help prevent the spread.  

Breast milk has also been shown to reduce the frequency and severity of RSV in many clinical studies since it is jam-packed full of antibodies and other immune-supportive properties, which is great news for breastfeeding families.  

How Can I Help My Sick Baby Feel Better?

Always consult with your child’s doctor for medical advice. Just like with any other illness, try to offer your child lots of rest and fluids (breastmilk or formula for infants and water or milk for older children).  If they are dealing with a lot of congestion, help them blow their nose or use gentle suction to keep their nose clear.  Saline nasal drops or a cool mist vaporizer may also be helpful.  Most infections will clear on their own in 1-2 weeks but be ready to seek medical attention with signs of respiratory distress, prolonged illness, or if you ever feel concerned about your baby.