RSV is a common virus that can cause runny nose, cough, fever, and congestion. It can sometimes make breathing and feeding difficult, especially for babies and young children.
Home Care
- Offer fluids often. Continue breast milk or formula; smaller, more frequent feeds may help.
- Use saline nose drops or spray with gentle suctioning before feeds and sleep.
- Encourage rest.
- Use a cool-mist humidifier if needed; clean it daily.
- Use fever or pain medicine only as directed for your child’s age and weight.
- Do not use over-the-counter cough and cold medicines unless specifically recommended.
- Keep your child away from smoke, vaping, and strong fragrances.
Call Ball Pediatrics If Your Child Has
- Drinking much less than usual or having trouble feeding
- Fewer wet diapers than usual
- Fever, worsening cough, wheezing, or faster breathing
- Vomiting that prevents them from keeping fluids down
- Symptoms that are not improving or any change that concerns you
Seek Emergency Care or Call 911 If Your Child Has
- Trouble breathing: ribs pulling in, belly breathing, nasal flaring, grunting, or head bobbing
- Pauses in breathing
- Blue, gray, or very pale lips, face, or skin
- Severe sleepiness, limpness, or difficulty waking
- Signs of dehydration, including very dry mouth, no tears when crying, or very little urine
- Is younger than 3 months and has a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
Help Prevent RSV
- Wash hands often.
- Keep sick people away from young babies when possible.
- Clean frequently touched surfaces.
- Avoid sharing cups, utensils, pacifiers, and towels.
- Ask about RSV prevention options for eligible infants.