By the time your little one turns two, chances are they’ll have encountered respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). For most healthy children, RSV feels like a typical cold. But for some—especially infants—it can lead to serious illness and even hospitalization.

As pediatricians, we understand how concerning it can be to see your baby struggle with breathing or feeding. Let’s walk through what RSV is, how to recognize it, and the newest ways to protect your child.

What Is RSV?

RSV is a common virus that spreads through droplets from coughs, sneezes, or contact with contaminated surfaces. It typically circulates from late fall through early spring, though timing can vary by region.

It’s the leading cause of hospitalization in children under 1 year. About 2–3 out of every 100 infants with RSV may need hospital care, often for oxygen support or IV fluids. Thankfully, most recover within a few days.

New Ways to Protect Babies

There are now two powerful options to help prevent severe RSV illness:

1. Maternal RSV Vaccine (Abrysvo)

• Given between 32–36 weeks of pregnancy (September–January).

• Reduces RSV hospitalization risk by 57% in the baby’s first six months.

• Only one dose is needed per pregnancy.

2. Infant RSV Immunization

• A single injection given at birth or during the first checkup.

• Recommended for babies under 8 months born before RSV season.

• Also advised for high-risk children aged 8–19 months entering their second RSV season.

• Offers 80–90% protection against hospitalization.

These immunizations work by delivering antibodies that start protecting immediately and last through the RSV season.

Recognizing RSV Symptoms

RSV often starts like a cold but can progress to bronchiolitis or pneumonia. Symptoms peak around days 3–5 and may last 7–14 days.

Cold Symptoms:

• Fever (≥100.4°F)

• Cough

• Runny nose

• Sneezing

• Fussiness

• Poor feeding

Bronchiolitis Signs:

• Fast breathing

• Nasal flaring

• Grunting

• Belly breathing

• Wheezing

Watch for chest wall retractions—if your baby’s chest caves in under the neck while breathing, they’re working hard to breathe and need medical attention.

When to Call Your Pediatrician

Seek help if your child shows:

• Difficulty breathing or pauses

• Dehydration (fewer than 1 wet diaper every 8 hours)

• Pale, gray, or blue skin/lips/nails

• High fever (especially in infants under 3 months)

• Symptoms worsening after 7 days

Comforting Your Child at Home

There’s no specific medication for RSV, but you can help your child feel better by:

• Using nasal saline and suctioning before feeds and naps

• Running a cool-mist humidifier

• Offering frequent feedings

• Giving acetaminophen or ibuprofen (if over 6 months)

Avoid aspirin and over-the-counter cold medications for young children.

Preventing RSV

• Keep up with routine immunizations, including flu and COVID shots.

• Adults over 60 can get the RSV vaccine.

• Practice good hygiene—handwashing, disinfecting surfaces, and avoiding smoke exposure.

• Breastfeeding provides antibodies that help fight infections.

Final Thoughts

RSV can be scary, but with new immunizations and attentive care, we can protect our youngest patients. If you have questions or concerns about RSV or your child’s symptoms, we’re here to help.

Dig into Trusted Resources:

• Healthychildren.org: Test Your Knowledge of RSV Symptoms, Causes & Prevention

• Healthychildren.org:  RSV Immunizations: Two Ways to Protect Babies