It’s that time of year again when illnesses are running rampant, kids are coming home sick from school, and you are opening yet another email about the spread of a new illness making its way through your child’s classroom. The fall and winter seasons are great for many things, but not for illnesses.

One category of illnesses that are particularly frustrating for parents is upper respiratory infection. They can make your kids feel really sick, but they can also be dangerous at times.

Our AFC Urgent Care Mooresville team explains more about upper respiratory infections and RSV in particular below.

Is RSV Really Contagious?

RSV is one kind of upper respiratory infection that affects the breathing passages. It settles somewhere in the respiratory system and irritates and inflames its airways. For most adults, RSV is a mild annoyance and will cause minor symptoms. Kids can have a much harder time overcoming the illness because their airways are so small.

Since your child’s airway is really small, any sort of inflammation in the respiratory system in children can be dangerous or can easily cause short or shallow breathing. This irritation can make it harder to breathe normally, which can become a medical emergency in a short amount of time. If your child begins to experience mild cold-like symptoms, keep a close eye on him or her in the coming days.

Symptom Onset for RSV

• Fever
• Runny nose/congestion
• Shallow Breathing
• Cough
• Muscle or body aches

When Should See a Doctor for RSV?

Minor symptoms or mild irritation are not considered a medical emergency, but the symptoms can still be annoying! Treat any fevers or pesky coughs with a trusted OTC medication and encourage as much rest as possible. Your little one’s immune system is working really hard, so the rest is necessary for a faster recovery.

If he or she starts to feel better in a few days, chances are that a full recovery is right around the corner. Unfortunately, some cases do progress into severe infections that require prompt medical attention. Seek immediate medical care if your child starts to exhibit signs of respiratory distress.

Dangerous Symptoms of Respiratory Distress

• Shallow breathing
• Blue skin or fingernails
• Feeling lethargic or extremely tired
• Chest pain

RSV can be dangerous. We are always here for you at AFC Urgent Care Mooresville.