Bronchiolitis, How The Winter Virus RSV affects Babies And Children

One of the most common viral infections affecting babies is a condition called Bronchiolitis which is important as is one of the most common reasons for hospital admissions in addition to bronchitis and pneumonia in babies.

How is Bronchiolitis (RSV) spread?
Bronchiolitis is caused by the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), known as the winter virus, and affects babies under 12 months but more commonly 2 to 8 months old. It is most common in the winter months of November to March. It is spread mainly in the air by inhaling little droplets from coughing or sneezing by a child who is already infected.

What are the symptoms and signs of Bronchiolitis
The early symptoms of bronchiolitis are similar to that of a common cold which are runny or blocked nose, cough, and fever.
However, suspicion should be raised if there’s any of:
Wheezing in babies
Baby Breathing problems – fast, noisy, grunting or struggling to breathe
Poor feeding
Vomiting after feeds in infants
Distressed, lethargic, irritable and uncontrollable crying
Reduced wet nappies

Signs of bronchiolitis are: high fever of 39 and above, dehydration, wheezing, flaring of the nostrils, sucking of the muscles under the ribs, grunting and laboured fast breathing

How is bronchiolitis treated?
Most cases of bronchiolitis are actually mild and tend to get better around 3 to 7 days without antibiotics as they are viral and not bacterial. However, a few cases can get worse or progress to bacterial infection and these require seeing a doctor, especially if your child was born premature, under 3 months or had any other medical condition.

For mild cases, certain simple home self-help treatments can be helpful

Calpol or ibuprofen
Saline Nasal drops
Steam Inhalation
Keep the room or temperature warm and moist .
Encourage small frequent amounts of regular bottle or breast feeds
Upright position – Keeping the cot upright while the baby is asleep or during feeding helps with their breathing.

How do I prevent or reduce chances of my baby catching bronchiolitis?
Cover your child’s nose and mouth when they sneeze or cough
Getting rid of used nose tissues or handkerchiefs
Ensure good hygiene by washing of baby’s hands and your hands also.
Wash other objects such as toys, clothes, cutleries etc.

Here is further information on bronchiolitis from NHS UK
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/bronchi...