Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common and highly contagious virus that can affect the lungs, particularly in young babies.
Most of the time RSV will cause a mild, cold-like illness and even though it’s the main reason babies end up in hospital, many parents and caregivers might not know its symptoms. Knowing what to look for helps parents and caregivers to act quickly and get the right care, and getting a doctor’s help early can make a big difference in how the infection can turn out.
What are the symptoms of RSV in babies and kids?
RSV first signs and symptoms
The first signs of RSV in babies are often similar to those of a common cold. However, the virus can progress quickly and become a serious lung infection, causing other complications, such as pneumonia or bronchiolitis:
The first symptoms of RSV can include:
- Congestion
- Runny nose with green mucus (snot)
- Irritability
- Decreased appetite
- Sore throat
Signs of serious RSV
Symptoms can worsen as the RSV infection spreads to the lungs. Seek medical attention if your baby has any of these symptoms:
- Short, shallow, and abnormally fast breathing
- A wheezing cough
- Nasal flaring
- Reduction in feeding and drinking due to breathing difficulties
- Unusual tiredness
- Developing a blue tint to their lips or fingernails
- Fever
When to seek medical attention
It is crucial to seek medical attention if your child is having difficulty breathing, not drinking enough fluids, or experiencing worsening symptoms.
How is RSV spread?
RSV is a common and highly contagious seasonal respiratory virus that spreads easily through contact with someone who is sick or contaminated surfaces. It is an airborne virus usually transmitted through large droplets entering the eyes, nose, or mouth, typically through close contact or touching contaminated surfaces, such as when your baby snuggles their favorite toy. Coughing or sneezing by someone who is sick can release these droplets, leading to transmission.
RSV hospitalization in infants
Although serious RSV is rare, RSV is the leading cause of hospitalization in babies under age 1.
2 to 3 out of every 100 infants under 3 months are hospitalized with RSV every year.
Babies who are hospitalized may need oxygen and IV fluids (if they aren't eating and drinking). RSV can be more serious for babies born prematurely or with other health issues.
Have more questions about RSV?
Preparing for a doctor’s appointment?
Your child should not take Beyfortus if your child has a history of serious allergic reactions to nirsevimab-alip or any of the ingredients in Beyfortus.
Before your child receives Beyfortus, tell your healthcare provider about all of your child’s medical conditions, including if your child:
- has ever had a reaction to Beyfortus.
- has bleeding or bruising problems. If your child has a problem with bleeding or bruises easily, an injection could cause a problem.
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines your child takes, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Your infant should not receive a medicine called palivizumab if they have already received Beyfortus in the same RSV season.
Serious allergic reactions have happened with Beyfortus. Get medical help right away if your child has any of the following signs or symptoms of a serious allergic reaction:
- swelling of the face, mouth, or tongue
- difficulty swallowing or breathing
- unresponsiveness
- bluish color of skin, lips, or under fingernails
- muscle weakness
- severe rash, hives, or itching
The most common side effects of Beyfortus include rash and pain, swelling, or hardness at the site of your child’s injection. These are not all the possible side effects of Beyfortus. Call your healthcare provider if you have questions about side effects.
Please see full Prescribing Information, including Patient Information, for more details.
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Beyfortus is a prescription medicine used to help prevent a serious lung disease caused by Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) in:
- Newborns and babies under 1 year of age born during or entering their first RSV season.
- Children up to 24 months of age who remain at risk of severe RSV disease through their second RSV season.
