What Parents Need to Know About RSV
RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, is a common but contagious respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Although most older children and adults recover in a week or two, RSV can be serious, especially for infants and young children. Here are some links to information about RSV in infants and young children:
- CDC RSV Info in pdf: https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/downloads/RSV-in-Infants-and-Young-Children.pdf
RSV Symptoms
Although RSV may be mild when it first starts, it can become increasingly severe a few days into
the illness. Early symptoms of RSV may include:
- Runny nose
- Decreased appetite
- Cough, which may progress to wheezing or difficulty breathing
Infants with RSV almost always show symptoms, though in very young infants (less than 6 months old) the only symptoms of RSV infection may be:
- Irritability
- Decreased activity
- Decreased appetite
- Apnea (pauses in breathing for more than 10 seconds)
- A fever may not always occur with RSV infections
Prevent the Spread of RSV
RSV season in Oregon usually starts in the fall and peaks in the winter. To protect infants and
young children from RSV, you should take extra care by doing the following:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
- If you cannot wash your hands, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least
60% alcohol - Keep your hands away from your face to avoid spreading germs
- Avoid close contact with sick people
- Cover your coughs and sneezes
- Clean and disinfect highly-used surfaces and objects
Call: 503-554-0036
Phones are answered and office is open 8:30 am - 5:00 pm Monday-Friday.
After Hours: For urgent medical needs after-hours, please call the office at 503-554-0036 and follow the prompts to be connected to our Physicians Answering Service. Voicemail messages left after-hours at that number will be returned early the next business day.