Ball Pediatrics

As both a pediatrician and a mom, I understand how quickly a simple runny nose can become a source of worry—especially when RSV season arrives.

RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, is a very common virus that affects the breathing passages. For older children and adults, it may look much like a cold. But in babies and young children, especially those under 12 months old, RSV can sometimes cause bronchiolitis, an infection and swelling in the small airways of the lungs. This can make it harder for little ones to breathe, feed, and sleep.

During RSV season, our office sees many families facing the same questions: “Is this just a cold?” “When should I be concerned?” “How can I protect my baby?” As a pediatrician, I help families recognize the signs that need medical attention. As a mom, I know that watching your child struggle with congestion or cough can feel overwhelming.

The reassuring news is that most children with RSV recover with supportive care at home. That usually means fluids, rest, nasal saline with gentle suctioning for infants, and plenty of patience. Coughs can linger longer than parents expect, even after a child otherwise seems to be improving.

However, there are times when children need to be seen urgently. Seek help promptly if your baby or child is breathing faster than usual, working hard to breathe, pulling in at the ribs or neck, having pauses in breathing, refusing feeds, making fewer wet diapers, or becoming unusually sleepy or difficult to wake. For young infants, changes in feeding or breathing deserve particular attention.

Prevention matters, too. Handwashing remains one of the most effective ways to limit the spread of RSV and other respiratory viruses. During respiratory virus season, it is reasonable to avoid close contact between young infants and people who are sick, clean frequently touched surfaces, and encourage older siblings to wash hands when they come home from school or activities. Avoiding tobacco smoke exposure is also important for protecting developing lungs.

We also have newer tools to help protect babies from severe RSV. Protection through RSV vaccination during pregnancy or an RSV antibody shot for eligible infants are options designed to reduce the risk of severe illness during a baby’s first RSV season.

If something feels different—whether it is their breathing, feeding, energy level, or overall appearance—it is always appropriate to reach out!