If you are a parent or have young children in your home, chances are that you have heard that RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, is circulating earlier this year. RSV has already contributed to an uptick in the number of hospitalized children.

We want your little ones to avoid getting sick with RSV this season! Check out AFC Urgent Care Clemson’s latest blog all about the dangers of RSV below.

Will My Child Need to Be Hospitalized With RSV?

While it is true that there are more children requiring hospitalization at this point in the year than normal, it is important to remember that most cases of RSV can be managed at home. The reason that it is more prevalent right now is most likely due to the social distancing requirements and school and daycare closures over the past few years.

While those measures were helpful in preventing the dangerous and often deadly effects of COVID-19, it means our children were not surrounded by the typical viruses they are normally exposed to during a given year. Now, kids are being exposed to these viruses all at once without the immunity they might have had otherwise. This is why it is important to watch your children for the emergence of any signs of RSV.

Beginning Signs of RSV

• Congestion
• Runny nose
• Cough/wheezing
• Sore throat

Why Do RSV and the Common Cold Seem Similar?

Because they are similar! Both the common cold and RSV can start out with very similar symptoms, making it almost impossible to tell the difference at the start. This is why we recommend a close watch on your symptomatic child! At the onset of any signs of respiratory distress, it is important to seek immediate medical attention.

Trouble breathing is always a medical emergency. It could look like a change in skin color from normal to blue or gray, chest retractions, or shallow breathing.

4 Things to Do to Avoid RSV

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds.
• Cover your cough or sneeze.
• Wipe down counters, toys and high-touch areas frequently.
• Don’t let others kiss your baby.

Wondering whether your child’s symptoms are RSV-related? Stop by AFC Urgent Care Clemson for a diagnosis.