RSV vs. Cold: Spotting Serious Winter Symptoms in Babies

• RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) is a highly contagious winter virus affecting infants, often mistaken for a common cold.
• While RSV can start like a cold, it can quickly worsen, causing persistent coughing, rapid breathing, wheezing, and feeding difficulties.
• Premature babies, infants under six months, and those with weak immunity or heart/lung conditions are at higher risk for severe RSV.
• Parents should seek medical attention for red flags like troubled breathing, bluish lips, or unusual sleepiness.
• Treatment for RSV is mainly supportive, focusing on hydration and managing symptoms; prevention involves hygiene and avoiding sick contacts.

Why It Matters: Parents must recognize RSV symptoms to protect infants from severe winter respiratory illness.