Health Highlights: RSV
Discussing the RSV vaccine and how to keep kids safe
Kids in the classroom and packed holiday gatherings are a cocktail for sesasonal colds and viruses, including respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV.
Most symptoms are mild like a cold. You can have a fever, runny nose or cough.
It can become more serious, though, if you have shortness of breath, a high fever, wheezing and a bluish tint to your skin.
Dr. Kinnera Are, a pediatrician with OSF HealthCare, says proper hand hygiene and staying home if you don't feel weel are a good start to protecting your kids.
“Some of the things we can do to really increase our immunity is making sure these kids are sleeping well at night and making sure we’re eating healthy, nutritious food as well," Dr. Are says.
RSV is expected to be a problem throughout the winter.
Hannah High, an advanced practice registered nurse with OSF HealthCare, says it's also important to follow the latest vaccine guidance.
“A lot of vaccines have been thrown at us the last couple years. People may be hesitant. But the RSV vaccine is a good one. I would recommend it," High adds.
High says to talk to your primary care provider about the RSV vaccine to see if it's right for you.
She adds, if you can, space out your vaccines this cold weather season.