Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
What is the RSV virus?
Respiratory syncytial viruses (RSV) cause colds, flu-like illnesses and bronchiolitis mainly in the winter months. Every year, children under the age of one, especially babies younger than three months, are particularly affected. They have a higher risk of complications, which may require hospitalization. In healthy adults, severe forms do not usually occur.
Symptoms:
- Stuffy nose
- Runny nose
- Cough
- Fever
- Tiredness
- Conjunctivitis
- Difficulty breathing (e.g. accelerated breathing, groaning and retraction under the ribs)
What to do if symptoms occur:
If your baby has difficulty breathing or other signs of deterioration in general health, it is important that you see the pediatrician quickly (e.g. if he or she has difficulty drinking, no longer wants to play, etc.).
If there are serious signs such as a very restless, unresponsive baby who has stopped drinking, is breathing very heavily, or if the lips or extremities turn blue, take your baby directly to an emergency ward.
Preventive measures:
- Limit visits before 3 months of age to close adults who are healthy and have no symptoms of cold, cough or fever.
- Wash/disinfect your hands regularly.
- Wear a face mask yourself if you have a cold, cough or fever.
- If possible, prevent siblings who have symptoms such as a cold, cough or fever from approaching the child.
Immunization:
Your baby can be effectively protected from RSV bronchiolitis by preventive treatment.
To prevent RSV bronchiolitis during the winter season, administration of a dose of nirsevimab (Beyfortus ®) to all infants born from April 1, 2024 is recommended(more information on immunization).