Can RSV infection affect pregnancy or the baby’s health?

RSV infection during pregnancy usually causes mild cold-like symptoms, but in some cases, it can lead to complications such as breathing difficulty or preterm labour if left unmanaged. The greater concern is for the newborn, as exposure soon after birth can result in serious respiratory illness since babies’ lungs and immunity are still developing.

How can family members help in protecting a newborn from RSV?

Family members play a key role in preventing RSV spread. They should wash hands often, wear masks if unwell, and avoid kissing the baby’s face. Regularly sanitising shared surfaces, keeping the room well-ventilated, and reducing visitors during the first few months all help create a clean, safe environment for the newborn.

Winter Care for Newborns: Simple Ways to Prevent RSV and Seasonal Infections

Your first winter with a newborn can feel magical, filled with soft blankets, gentle sunlight, and warm cuddles. However, this season also brings common respiratory infections like RSV, influenza, and other cold-weather viruses. Newborns have developing immune systems, so these infections can be serious. With a little awareness and steady care, you can help try and keep your baby safe and comfortable during the colder months.
RSV, short for Respiratory Syncytial Virus, is quite a common virus that affects the lungs and airways. In older children and adults, it often appears as a mild cold. In newborns, RSV can cause severe breathing difficulties, risk of hospitalisation, and, in rare cases, lead to pneumonia or bronchitis if not managed early.
Other winter viruses that often circulate include the common cold, influenza, and parainfluenza viruses. All of these spread mainly through droplets, touch, and surfaces. Let's explore how we can manage it.

1. Keep Indoor Air Fresh and Comfortable

Since newborns spend most of their time indoors, good indoor air quality is important for their health. In winter, families often keep windows closed, but this can let viruses and germs build up inside. Simple ways to maintain fresh air:

Open the windows for 10–15 minutes daily to allow cross-ventilation, especially in the morning.
Keep the room warm but not stuffy.
Avoid incense sticks or room fresheners that can irritate sensitive lungs.
If using a heater, maintain humidity by placing a bowl of water nearby to prevent dry air.

Good air circulation helps reduce virus concentration indoors and makes breathing easier for newborns.

2. Follow Strict Hand Hygiene

Hands often carry germs. Each time someone holds or touches your baby, there is a chance of spreading viruses. Simple hygiene tips:

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the baby.
Keep hand sanitiser near the baby’s area for quick use by visitors.
Trim nails regularly to prevent dirt and bacteria from accumulating.
Encourage family members to avoid touching the baby’s face unnecessarily.

In households with older siblings, teach them to wash their hands every time they return from school or play.

3. Limit Visitors During Peak Cold Months

In India, family and friends often visit to meet the newborn, which is a lovely tradition. However, during winter, it’s best to be cautious. Practical steps:

Limit close contact, especially with people who have a cough, cold, or fever.
Politely postpone gatherings if someone feels unwell.
Keep visits short and ensure visitors wash their hands before holding the baby.
Avoid crowded public spaces such as malls or functions for the first few months.

Small precautions during the early months can significantly reduce exposure to viruses.

4. Focus on Breastfeeding and Nutrition

Breastfeeding is one of the effective shields against winter infections. It provides antibodies that strengthen the baby’s immune system naturally. For breastfeeding parents:

Stay well-hydrated with soups and warm water.
Include immunity-boosting foods such as turmeric, ginger, spinach, and seasonal fruits.
Try not to skip meals, as your own nutrition helps support your baby’s health and defences.

For babies on formula milk, ensure bottles and teats are properly sterilised to prevent bacterial growth.

5. Maintain Warmth but Don’t Overheat

It is important to keep your baby warm, but too much heat can make them uncomfortable or cause dehydration. Aim for gentle, steady warmth. Tips to keep your baby snug and safe:

Dress the baby in light cotton layers that can be added or removed easily.
Use soft blankets but avoid covering the face.
Maintain room temperature around 24–26°C.
Expose the baby to mild morning sunlight for Vitamin D; about 15 minutes is enough.
Avoid placing the baby directly under fans or near heaters.

Keeping your baby comfortably warm helps them sleep better and lowers the risk of getting sick.

6. Prioritise Clean Surroundings

A clean environment supports better breathing and reduces germ spread. Simple cleanliness habits:

Wash bedding and baby clothes in mild detergent and sun-dry them regularly.
Wipe commonly touched surfaces like doorknobs, switches, and toys.
Keep pets away from the baby’s sleeping area.
Disinfect feeding bottles, breast pumps, and pacifiers after each use.

Good hygiene doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about being consistent with small daily actions.

7. Boost Immunity Naturally

A newborn’s immune system matures over time, but you can help it grow stronger with natural care and good habits at home. Immunity-boosting habits:

Keep feeding on schedule to maintain strength and hydration.
Take care of your own health, as your well-being helps keep your baby healthy too.
Keep stress low at home; babies sense energy and calmness around them.
Encourage skin-to-skin contact, as it promotes warmth, bonding, and better immunity.

Holistic care during the first few months lays a foundation for lifelong health.

Winter can be challenging, but it is also a time for quiet bonding. Keeping your newborn safe from RSV and other winter viruses is about being consistent and gentle, not following complicated routines. Clean surroundings, practising hygiene, regulating warmth, and nourishing both body and spirit can help you create a natural shield around your baby. Remember, prevention is always simpler than treatment.

As the weather cools and you bring out the blankets, focus on the small, caring routines that keep your home and your baby safe, warm, and healthy.

Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.

FAQs on Winter Care for Newborns: Simple Ways to Prevent RSV and Seasonal Infections

Can RSV infection affect pregnancy or the baby’s health?
RSV infection during pregnancy usually causes mild cold-like symptoms, but in some cases, it can lead to complications such as breathing difficulty or preterm labour if left unmanaged. The greater concern is for the newborn, as exposure soon after birth can result in serious respiratory illness since babies’ lungs and immunity are still developing.
How can family members help in protecting a newborn from RSV?
Family members play a key role in preventing RSV spread. They should wash hands often, wear masks if unwell, and avoid kissing the baby’s face. Regularly sanitising shared surfaces, keeping the room well-ventilated, and reducing visitors during the first few months all help create a clean, safe environment for the newborn.