Kids Health Watch is Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common seasonal illness that tends to hit our youngest patients the hardest. It spreads easily, moving quickly through communities, daycare centers, and schools. While most respiratory viruses worsen over three to five days, RSV tends to take a little longer—often peaking between days five and seven—and can affect the lungs more frequently than other viruses.
RSV often begins like an ordinary cold, with a runny nose, mild fever, and cough. However, as the illness progresses, symptoms can become more intense. The cough may turn harsh or “barky,” and congestion can grow heavy enough that it interferes with feeding and sleep—especially in babies and toddlers. Some children may also develop wheezing or noticeable effort with breathing. These breathing difficulties can come and go, which can make the illness confusing and stressful for parents. You might see your child struggling at home, only for them to seem almost back to normal by the time you reach the pediatrician’s office. Even if symptoms fluctuate, if you notice ongoing trouble breathing, poor feeding, or increasing fatigue, it’s important to have your child checked by their doctor.
RSV can be diagnosed quickly with a simple nasal swab in your pediatrician’s office. While there isn’t a medication that can make the virus go away faster, there are several ways to help your child feel more comfortable while their body fights it off. Supportive care includes using Tylenol or Motrin to ease fever or fussiness, and helping clear nasal congestion with saline drops and gentle suctioning—especially before feeding and sleep. For some children who develop wheezing or more noticeable breathing difficulty, your pediatrician may recommend using Albuterol through a nebulizer. Since symptoms vary so widely, your pediatrician will guide you through the most effective ways to help your child recover safely and comfortably.
One exciting new development is the availability of a preventative treatment called Beyfortus. This medication can be given before the RSV season begins and helps protect babies and high-risk young children from developing severe symptoms if they are exposed to the virus.
While RSV symptoms can be scary, the good news is that most children recover fully with time, rest, and supportive care. Staying in close communication with your pediatrician and knowing what to watch for can help keep your little one safe and comfortable.
Author: Savannah Browning
Dr. Savannah Browning grew up in Fayette, AL. She moved to Mobile to attend Medical School at the University of South Alabama in 2009, and has been a proud Mobilian ever since. She joined Children’s Medical Group in 2016, and her office is at the Airport Boulevard location. She lives in Mobile with her husband, Andrew, and their three children: Jude, Luke, and Annie.
