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Kid Health

The risks of RSV Respiratory syncytial virus is a serious concern. By William P. Hitchcock, M.D.Published: November, 2009

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Each winter, parents worry about the “seasonal flu,” a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses A and B. The flu can cause mild to severe illness and is more dangerous for certain populations, including the elderly, young children and people with certain health conditions.     The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that all children ages 6 months to 19 years old receive a flu vaccine, especially children with underlying chronic diseases such as asthma and diabetes. Parents of infants under 6 months are recommended to receive the vaccine as well.      This year, a new influenza A infection, the H1N1 virus, has received a great deal of attention. Because humans have not previously been exposed to this flu, it is highly contagious. Symptoms mimic those of the flu, including acute onset of cough, congestion, sore throat, fever, chills, headache and body aches, but H1N1 may also be associated with diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.      Most people are unaware, however, that there is another seasonal virus that can be 10 times deadlier than the flu and primarily endangers babies and young children. Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is the leading cause of hospitalization of children under the age of 1 and will affect virtually every child by age 2. > What is RSV? RSV infects the upper respiratory system and exhibits symptoms similar to the common cold or flu. It is responsible for one of every 13 visits to a pediatrician and one of every 38 emergency room trips for children up to the age of 5.     All babies are at risk for contracting RSV, particularly within the first six months of life, but babies born prematurely (earlier than 37 weeks gestational age) are especially vulnerable to a more serious case of RSV, because they have underdeveloped lungs and less vital antibodies needed to fight off infections.     Babies who have low birth weight (less than 5.5 pounds), are in frequent contact with other children (such as older siblings or at daycare), have a family history of asthma, or are exposed to tobacco smoke are also at a higher risk of contracting RSV.     In addition, babies suffering from lung disease, heart disease or immune deficiencies should be watched more closely for a longer period of time, because RSV can lead to more severe lower- respiratory-tract infections, including bronchiolitis or pneumonia. NEXT PAGE >>>

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