RSV Info

The RSV season begins in October and runs as late as the end of April, depending upon the region of the US you are in. Many children, especially infants with Down syndrome, are ideal candidates to be HIT HARD by RSV.  This can result in extended hospital stays, intensie care unit treatment, extended periods in O2 tents. It also results in a HUGE amount of stress to both the child and its parents.

RSV is a respiratory virus that can have a significant impact on the infants ability to breath and  ozygenate their body

 

RSV Danger Zone (US)

October through April

serious lower respiratory tract RSV disease in pediatric patients at high risk for RSV disease

RSV Characteristics and Symptoms

• Chest congestion and WHEEZING
• Dropping O2 saturation levels
• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing. Apparent labor in breathing
• Coughing
• Temperature

Look for signs that the patient is having an O2 problem. This can be seen in a number of ways. These include paling of skin or blue color around the lips. Remember, different ethnic backgrounds do make it harder to detect some of the symptoms.  If paling or blueing skin is not readily visible, keep an eye on their fingernail beds to make sure they stay pink.

This condition can become severe VERY QUICKLY. RSV can last six weeks to two months, and the patient is more susceptable to re-occurence.