This year, more than 100,000 children will be hospitalized for RSV. Approximately 500 of those children will die. Therefore, it is important for parents to learn about RSV, including how to prevent their child from contracting RSV.
RSV Season - Prevent RSV During High Season
RSV season generally begins around the end of November and ends around April, however RSV tends to peak in December and January. The RSV season varies slightly depending on where you live. Check with your child's Pediatrician for specific information about the RSV season in your area.
Knowlege Equals Prevention - How RSV Spreads
RSV is highly contagious because it can live for several hours on surfaces and unwashed hands. Therefore, daycares are breeding grounds for RSV.
Chances are, if your child goes to daycare, s/he will contract RSV at least once during RSV season.
RSV Prevention Tips for Parents of Infants
Premature infants are at the greatest risk for developing a serious infection due to RSV because their lungs are underdeveloped. RSV can lead to pneumonia or bronchiolitis in children 2 years old and younger.
How to Prevent RSV:
Minimize the number of visitors into your home and in contact with your infant.
Require anyone who comes in contact with your infant to wash their hands before touching him or her.
Do not allow sick people into your home or near your infant.
Avoid crowded places, such as malls, carnivals, circuses, community events, etc., and confined places, such as elevators.
Do not smoke or allow anyone else to smoke in the presence of your infant or child.
If possible, do not take your child to day care during RSV season.
Talk to your child's Pediatrician about influenza immunization at 6 months of age.
Talk to your child's Pediatrician about medication for RSV prevention. High-risk infants may be suitable for such preventative treatment.
RSV Prevention Tips for Parents of Toddlers / Preschoolers
Parents of toddlers and preschoolers should teach their children good manners, such as the following:
Frequent hand washing
Use and disposal of tissues
Sneezing and coughing in the crook of their arms rather than their hands
Keeping their hands out of their mouths
Not putting toys in their mouths
The Parents' Role in RSV Prevention
Parents should also take steps to prevent RSV. The following are a few tips parents can use to help prevent RSV:
Disinfect toys, surfaces and countertops often.
Keep children away from sick children, especially during the RSV season.
Avoid putting your child in daycare, if possible.
Wash your hands often.
Related: Is Your Child At Risk for RSV?
Source: American Academy of Pediatrics
