Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, can be harmful to infants | Texas

TEXARKANA, Texas – Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is a common respiratory virus that usually causes symptoms similar to those of the common cold. The virus is spreading widely in southern states, including Louisiana and Texas. It’s usually more prevalent in the fall and winter, but with the easing of COVID regulations, an unusual summer peak occurs.

Although the symptoms are usually mild, they can be more dangerous for very young children.

“The most affected may be our infants or our very young children,” said Dr. Debra Wright-Bowers, pediatrician at the Collum and Carney Clinic in Texarkana. “Usually colds in older children can cause coughing, sneezing, runny nose, stuffy nose. But in our very young, they can get bronchiolitis. And they can have breathing problems.”

Bronchiolitis is an inflammation of the small airways in the lungs. RSV is the most common cause of illness in children under one year of age. It can also cause pneumonia.

Wright-Bowers says there are symptoms parents of infants should be aware of.

“Infants who have breathing problems can have what we call a nasal flare, where their nostrils are widened. Sometimes they can growl every time they breathe. Sometimes their chest can collapse, when they use them. muscles between their ribs for breathing or the muscles in their neck, ”she said.“ When this is noticed, they should see a doctor immediately and take their child to be evaluated for an intervention. can be done. “

RSV can also be dangerous for older people. If you have a young child or an elderly dependent who has difficulty breathing, see a doctor immediately.