Every autumn and winter, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes many infections in babies and young children. Its most characteristic form is bronchiolitis, an inflammation of the small airways of the lungs. From our practice – pediatrician Thessaloniki, pediatrician Evosmos – here is what parents need to know.
Which children it affects
Bronchiolitis mainly affects babies under 12 months, most often under 6 months. Premature babies, infants under 3 months and children with congenital heart disease or chronic lung disease are at higher risk of severe illness.
Symptoms
- It starts like a cold: runny nose, sneezing, mild fever.
- After 2–3 days a cough and fast breathing appear, sometimes with wheezing.
- Difficulty feeding, because the nose is blocked and breathing is tiring.
- Symptoms usually peak on day 3–5, and the cough can last 2–3 weeks.
Care at home
- Nasal saline drops/rinses and gentle suction before feeds and sleep.
- Small, frequent feeds to keep the baby hydrated.
- Fever medicine for fever, as advised by the pediatrician.
- No smoking in the home.
Antibiotics don’t help, because it is a viral infection, and cough syrups are not recommended for babies.
Signs that need urgent assessment
- Very fast or laboured breathing, chest indrawing (the skin “pulls in” between or below the ribs), flaring nostrils.
- Pauses in breathing (apnoeas) or blue lips.
- The baby takes less than half their usual feeds or has fewer wet nappies.
- Drowsiness or marked irritability.
- Any fever in a baby under 3 months.
Prevention
Handwashing, keeping the baby away from people with colds and limiting crowded indoor spaces during the winter months. Today there are also RSV immunisation options for infants and vaccination during pregnancy; discuss with your pediatrician which option is suitable and available for your child.
For an examination of a baby with a cough or difficulty breathing, contact Giannis Ritsas, pediatrician Thessaloniki, at his practice in Evosmos.
For appointments and information, contact Dr. Giannis Ritsas, pediatrician Thessaloniki and pediatrician Evosmos.