Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Dr. Ashish John, a Pediatric Specialist at Memorial on Koke Mill, spoke on the WTAX Morning Newswatch recently about Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) in children, as well as adults. Though the main focus was on premature babies as well as infants or toddlers who already suffer from pre-existing health conditions, Dr. John explained that it isn’t serious in adults and can be treated easily..

“This is a virus that is like a cold, however with the common cold, your Upper Respiratory System is usually the target, with RSV, it effects the Lower Respiratory System, which can then dip into your lungs causing more concern” Stated John.

John also mentioned that this virus is also not treated with regular medicine, but instead home care and over the counter symptom relief are okay ways to go. It was told as well that in some cases this condition can also become fatal if not handled correctly, mainly in those premature and already unhealthy little ones.

You can find multiple details on RSV online or ask your pediatrician what you need to do to keep your infants safe, as well as how to treat this virus.

If your little one has RSV, treatment can include oxygen treatments, a vaporizer, and hot steam from the shower. The ones who are the youngest victims of RSV, whom of which can’t blow their own nose, struggle especially because they are practically drowning in their own mucus and the secretions caused by the virus.  The best practice would be of course to take the kiddo to the doctor, and have your pediatrician help you figure out what you may need to do.