RSV Prevention & Awareness for Preemies #RSVAwareness

I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting (#MC) for MedImmune. I received a promotional item as a thank you for participating.

Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is a very contagious virus that occurs in epidemics starting this time of year through March. Despite being the leading cause of hospitalization for babies during their first year of life in the US, many parents have never even heard of it! Bringing a baby into the world is a wonderful time in life, but imagine the fear of preemie parents this time of year when the occurrence of illnesses increases. 

RSV can appear to be a common cold in full-term babies, but it can be potentially dangerous for preemies who lack the virus-fighting antibodies needed to fight off infections because their immune systems haven't had time to fully mature. Preemies are also more susceptible to respiratory problems in general because they are born with fragile undeveloped lungs so are therefore deemed high risk for developing severe RSV disease. RSV can become life-threatening and require medical attention or even hospitalization for preterm infants.

Since RSV is very contagious, it can be spread easily through touching, sneezing and coughing. The virus can live on the skin and surfaces for hours. RSV is a virus meaning there are no easy treatment options like bacterial illnesses, so prevention is critical. 

This holiday season, please take extra precaution to stop the spread of RSV and other illnesses, especially if you'll come into contact with a baby, premature or not.

Tips for RSV Prevention
· Wash their hands and ask others to do the same
· Keep toys, clothes, blanket and sheets clean
· Avoid crowds and other young children during RSV season
· Never let anyone smoke around your baby
· Steer clear of people who are sick or who have recently been sick

Symptoms of Severe RSV Disease
Contact your child’s pediatrician immediately if your child exhibits one or more of the following:
· Persistent coughing or wheezing
· Bluish color around the mouth or fingernails
· Rapid, difficult, or gasping breaths
· Fever (especially if it is over 100.4°F (rectal) in infants under 3 months of age)

World Prematurity Day is coming up on November 17th. With more than 13 million babies born early every year, including half a million here in the United States, it's very important to bring extra awareness to the high risk for RSV disease among preemies.

 

Please take a few moments and learn more about what YOU can do to help with RSV prevention by visiting RSVProtection.com.