October is RSV Awareness Month: What Parents Need to Know

October is RSV Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about Respiratory Syncytial Virus and its impact on children. RSV is one of the most common causes of respiratory illness in young children, and October is when cases begin to rise. At Pediatric Health Partners, we want parents to know what to watch for, how RSV spreads, and what treatments are available so you can keep your family safe and prepared.

What is RSV

Respiratory Syncytial Virus is a virus that affects the respiratory system, especially the nose, throat, and lungs. Nearly all children will experience RSV at least once by the age of 2. For many, it looks and feels like a common cold, but in infants and children with certain health conditions, it can cause more serious problems like bronchiolitis or pneumonia. RSV spreads easily through coughs, sneezes, or touching contaminated surfaces like toys and then touching the face. This is why daycares, schools, and busy households often see quick transmission once RSV is circulating.

Who is at Risk 

Most children recover from RSV with mild cold-like symptoms, but some children are more vulnerable to severe illness. This includes: 

• Infants younger than 6 months 

• Babies born prematurely 

• Children with chronic lung disease or congenital heart disease 

• Children with weakened immune systems 

• Infants with neuromuscular conditions that affect breathing or swallowing

These children may need closer monitoring during RSV season because they are at a higher risk of hospitalization if symptoms become severe.

Symptoms Parents Should Watch For 

RSV often begins with mild, cold-like symptoms, but can worsen in certain children. The first signs usually appear 4 to 6 days after exposure.

Milder symptoms can include: 

• Runny nose or congestion 

• Coughing and sneezing 

• Low-grade fever 

• Decreased appetite 

• Irritability or fatigue

More serious symptoms may include: 

• Wheezing or noisy breathing 

• Fast or difficult breathing with chest retractions (pulling in between the ribs) 

• Blue lips or skin (a sign of low oxygen) 

• Long pauses in breathing (apnea), especially in infants 

• Trouble eating or drinking 

• Fewer wet diapers, which can indicate dehydration

If your child has any of these more serious symptoms, it’s important to seek medical care right away.

How RSV is Diagnosed

 Dr. Kim Bookout can usually diagnose RSV by listening to your child’s symptoms and examining them. Sometimes a nasal swab is used to confirm the diagnosis. Most of the time, further testing isn’t needed unless the doctor suspects complications or other illnesses.

Treatment for RSV

There is no specific medication that cures RSV, so treatment focuses on helping your child stay comfortable and supported while their body fights the virus. This may include: 

• Giving plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration 

• Using saline drops and gentle suction to clear nasal passages 

• Running a cool-mist humidifier to ease congestion 

• Giving fever-reducing medicine like acetaminophen or ibuprofen (if age-appropriate, and never aspirin)

In more serious cases, children may need oxygen or IV fluids in the hospital to help them recover. Antibiotics are not useful unless a bacterial infection is also present.

Prevention Tips

Because RSV spreads so easily, prevention is key during RSV Awareness Month and throughout the fall and winter. You can help protect your family by: 

• Washing hands often with soap and water 

• Keeping children away from others who are sick 

• Cleaning toys, doorknobs, and frequently touched surfaces regularly 

• Limiting close contact like kissing or sharing cups during RSV season 

• Breastfeeding when possible, as it can provide extra antibodies

There are also newer medical options for prevention. For some babies, especially those at high risk, your pediatrician may recommend a protective antibody injection to help reduce the risk of severe illness. Pregnant women may also be offered an RSV vaccine that helps protect their baby after birth. If you think your child may be a candidate, talk with us during your next visit.

When to Call the Doctor 

If your child has mild symptoms, you can often manage them at home while keeping a close eye on their breathing and hydration. However, call us right away or seek emergency care if your child is: 

• Breathing rapidly or struggling to breathe 

• Turning blue around the lips or face 

• Refusing to eat or drink 

• Having fewer wet diapers 

• Experiencing pauses in breathing

Helpful Resources for Parents

• CDC – RSV in Infants and Young Children 

• American Lung Association – RSV Awareness Month

Raising awareness during RSV Awareness Month helps families prepare for the season ahead. By knowing the symptoms, how it spreads, and when to seek care, parents can feel more confident about protecting their children and recognizing when it’s time to call the pediatrician.

Pediatric Health Partners wants to keep your precious ones healthy and happy. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 972-355-7900. We’re here to help!