RSV season is here once more, so it is important to refresh your memory on what this pesky illness is and how to prevent your kids from getting it. While anyone can contract RSV, it disproportionately causes severe illness in small children and infants.

Having sick kids in your home is never fun, but it can be especially dangerous if your little one comes down with RSV. Our AFC Urgent Care Gastonia team wants your family to stay as healthy as possible this year, so read on to learn more about RSV and how to prevent it.

How Can RSV Spread?

RSV can be easily spread through airborne droplets from an infected person. A single uncovered cough or sneeze can lead to a rapidly spreading outbreak. You can also contract it through direct contact with an infected person, like from a kiss. This is why it is really important to keep a close eye on your kids!

Keep them away from infected individuals or crowded areas at this time of year, and really consider limiting who is allowed to kiss and hug your small children while RSV caseloads are high in our area. A single kiss on the cheek from a loved one may be sweet, but it can also lead to a serious or even life-threatening infection.

Beginning Signs of RSV

• Fever
• Runny nose/congestion
• Shallow breathing
• Cough
• Muscle or body aches

Why Do Kids Get Really Sick From RSV?

RSV is simply an upper respiratory infection, so it may seem confusing as to why it affects kids so much more than adults. The answer to that lies in the size of children’s airways! An adult might experience a bit of discomfort and maybe a cough during an RSV infection, but kids can have severe or life-threatening symptoms because their airways are so small.

Any amount of inflammation in your child’s breathing passages can create serious breathing difficulties and respiratory distress. This is why you need to keep a close eye on your sick kiddos! Respiratory distress is always considered a medical emergency, so seek medical attention if you notice any of the below symptoms.

Red Flag Symptoms of an RSV Infection

• Shallow breathing or chest contractions
• A high fever that won’t go away
• Blue skin or fingernails
• Loss of consciousness

If you aren’t feeling well, we can help. Come see us at AFC Urgent Care Gastonia.