In this article:
We spoke with Dr Bharat Jain, Senior Consultant – Paediatrics and Neonatology at Cocoon Hospital, Chandigarh, to understand RSV in babies.
What Is RSV in Babies?
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a respiratory infection. In babies, it can affect the smaller airways, causing swelling and mucus buildup. In some cases, this may lead to breathing problems or conditions such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia.RSV is very common in babies and young children. According to the WHO, nearly all children have had at least one RSV infection by the age of 2 years. RSV can also cause serious infections and hospital stays in children under 5.
What Causes RSV in Babies?
RSV is caused by the Respiratory Syncytial Virus. The virus enters the body through the nose, mouth, or eyes and can affect the respiratory system. It spreads mainly through droplets, mucus, saliva, and contact with contaminated surfaces.How Do Babies Get RSV?
Babies can come into contact with RSV during everyday activities.Common situations include:
- Being around a sick parent, sibling, or caregiver
- Spending time with other children
- Attending daycare or childcare
- Touching toys or objects handled by an infected person
- Receiving close contact, such as hugs or kisses, from someone who has RSV
RSV Symptoms in Babies
RSV symptoms can vary from mild to more noticeable in babies.Common signs include:
- Runny or blocked nose
- Cough
- Sneezing
- Fever
- Reduced feeding
- Fussiness
- Tiredness
- Wheezing or noisy breathing
Which Babies Are at Higher Risk From RSV?
Some babies may need closer attention when they have RSV because their bodies may have a harder time handling the infection. Very young infants and those with certain health conditions can become unwell more quickly.“Babies younger than 6 months, premature babies, and babies with other underlying medical problems can be at increased risk for severe RSV infections.”
— Dr Bharat Jain, Senior Consultant – Pediatrics and Neonatology, Cocoon Hospital, Chandigarh
How Is RSV Diagnosed in Babies?
Dr Bharat Jain explains that RSV is usually diagnosed by examining the baby and reviewing their symptoms.Doctors may check:
- The baby's breathing and overall condition
- Oxygen levels with a pulse oximeter
- Feeding, fever, cough, and other symptoms
- A nasal swab when RSV testing is needed
How Is RSV Treated in Babies?
Dr Bharat Jain explains that there is no specific medicine that cures RSV. Treatment mainly focuses on keeping the baby comfortable and supporting recovery, such as:- Keep the baby well hydrated
- Use saline drops to help clear a blocked nose
- Offer smaller, more frequent feeds if needed
- Monitor the baby's breathing and activity
- Do not use antibiotics unless prescribed for another bacterial infection
- Severe cases may require hospital care, oxygen, or breathing support
How Long Does RSV Last in Babies?
RSV usually gets better within 1–2 weeks. A cough or runny nose may continue for a little longer, even after your baby starts feeling better. If symptoms are getting worse rather than improving, speak with your baby's doctor.How Can You Prevent RSV in Babies?
You cannot always prevent RSV, but these simple steps can help reduce your baby's exposure:- Wash your hands before touching the baby
- Keep your baby away from people who are sick
- Avoid kissing the baby when you have cold symptoms
- Clean toys and frequently touched surfaces
- Avoid cigarette smoke around your baby
- Ask your doctor about RSV immunisation options for your baby
When Should You Seek Medical Help for RSV?
Contact your baby's doctor if you notice any of these signs:- Breathing faster or harder than usual
- Skin between the ribs pulling in while breathing
- Nostrils widening or grunting while breathing
- Lips, face, or skin looking blue or grey
- Pauses in breathing
- Baby is very sleepy or difficult to wake
- Baby is feeding much less than usual
- Fewer wet diapers than normal
- Symptoms are getting worse instead of improving
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FAQs on RSV in Babies: Symptoms, Causes and When to Seek Help
- Can a baby have RSV without a fever?
Yes. Fever is not always present with RSV. Some babies, especially very young infants, may have other signs, such as poor feeding, tiredness, a cough, or changes in breathing, without a fever. - Can RSV cause vomiting in babies?
Yes. Strong coughing or swallowing mucus can sometimes make a baby vomit. If vomiting happens repeatedly, your baby cannot keep feeds down, or shows signs of dehydration, contact a doctor. - Can breastfeeding help protect a baby from RSV?
Breast milk contains antibodies and other immune factors that support a baby's developing immune system. However, breastfeeding cannot completely prevent RSV, so babies can still become infected despite being breastfed.
