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The RS virus is mainly spread during the winter months and it is common for children under 1 year old to be infected. The symptoms are similar to a classic cold, but they can be much worse, especially for the very young. However, there are ways to protect our little ones from the infection and, for those who are affected, it is possible to alleviate the symptoms. 

When the Public Health Agency of Sweden monitored the RS season from October 2022 to the end of April 2023, 15360 cases of RS virus were reported. 20 % of these were children under 1 year of age. Some children become seriously ill and need to be hospitalized, while most experience mild symptoms. However, the more severe infections may require oxygen and in some cases ventilator treatment, so it is a virus to be taken seriously. This does not mean that parents should feel afraid in their everyday lives, but that knowledge about the virus together with some caution may be appropriate.

How is the virus spread? 

The RSV can be easily spread through close physical contact, such as hugging and kissing, but also through coughing and sneezing. As the virus can survive on hard surfaces for several hours, it can easily spread to those who come into contact with the objects and then touch their eyes, nose or mouth. This means that the virus spreads extremely easily and you as a parent should keep this in mind in public places as well as at home.

Infection and symptoms of RSV 

There are several symptoms to look out for if you suspect your child has contracted RS:

• Cold symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, stuffy or runny nose
• Reduced or no appetite (applies to both breastfeeding and regular food) 
• Fatigue, reduced energy and activity
• Wheezing 

Anyone can catch RS, young or old, but babies under one year of age are more likely to be affected. Keep in mind that the symptoms are often similar to common cold symptoms, therefore they can be diffuse. If you suspect your child has been affected and has more than mild symptoms, contact your healthcare provider.

Protect your child against the RS virus 

As the virus can survive for hours on different objects and surfaces, good hygiene is essential. Wash your hands frequently (preferably for at least 20 seconds), cough and sneeze into a tissue or into the crook of your arm, disinfect surfaces and objects such as toys and cutlery, and try to keep your children away from people who are sick. Ideally, meet other families with young children outdoors and keep any older siblings home from preschool to reduce the risk of infection.

Read more about the RS virus here.

Relieving the symptoms of RSV

If your child has cold symptoms or is diagnosed with RS, there are several things you can do to help ease the symptoms:

• Give nasal spray or saline drops to help breathing if your child is congested
• Feed and hydrate or breastfeed/feed more than usual if your baby has difficulty feeding
• Give antipyretics for fever (consult a doctor if necessary)
• Use a nasal aspirator to ease breathing in case of nasal congestion
• Raise the head of the bed and have the window open to help your baby breathe easier when sleeping

Keep in mind that care and attention to family hygiene is important to prevent possible infection and keep you as healthy and well as possible, especially during the winter months.

MAT-SE-2300709-1.0-10/2023