RSV is a common respiratory virus that can affect people of any age but is particularly dangerous in small children and older adults.
Overview
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a respiratory virus common among children, with nearly all children catching it at least once by the age of 2. It often resembles a cold, with symptoms including runny nose, sneezing, fever, wheezing, and cough, and in many cases, it is mild and resolves with at-home care.
Some cases of RSV become much more serious and can lead to hospitalization. One important warning sign is wheezing or difficulty breathing, particularly if you are noticing fast or labored breathing where the ribs are visible with every breath. If you notice that or any other odd breathing patterns, contact your pediatrician or go to urgent care.
There is no treatment for RSV itself once contracted, only supportive treatment for the symptoms, so it is important to prevent the spread via good handwashing practices, staying home when sick, and keeping up to date on your vaccines.
Our approach
In cases where hospitalization is necessary, the team at M Health Fairview provides supportive care for those with RSV. Generally, appropriate care involves help with breathing, like oxygen, and fluids.
However, many cases of RSV can resolve with at-home care, such as use of a humidifier, saline spray, and nasal suction to help with congestion, ibuprofen (for children 6 months and older) or acetaminophen (for children 2 months and older) for fever or pain, and increased fluids.
Breast milk or formula are sufficient to hydrate babies, and older children and adults can have water, juice, Gatorade, soup, or any other liquid. Even water-rich foods like watermelon, strawberries, oranges, or popsicles can help.
RSV vaccines are a good way to prevent the spread of this virus. Vaccines are available to infants, children at risk for severe infection, and pregnant individuals to pass on antibodies. If you would like an RSV vaccine for yourself or your children, please discuss with your primary care provider or your child’s pediatrician.
See dosage chart below for information about giving ibuprofen and acetaminophen.
Acetaminophen Dosage Table
Ibuprofen Dosage Table
Figure 01: Acetaminophen Dosage Table
Figure 02: Ibuprofen Dosage Table