Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is a respiratory virus that can affect anyone, most commonly from late fall to early spring. Whereas an adult who contracts RSV might mistake it for the common cold, the symptoms are usually worse and more serious--even fatal--in infants. RSV is highly contagious, according to KidsHealth, and can be spread through coughing or sneezing, or by touching a surface contaminated with the virus, such as a door handle.
Shallow and Rapid Breathing
When your infant contracts RSV, you might notice he has trouble breathing or that his breaths are shallow and rapid. You might also see his chest muscles and the skin around his ribs draw in deeply with each breath. You can sometimes also hear a wheezing or rattling in his chest when he breathes, due to congestion. He may have a cough. His breathing may also become worse when he lies flat on his back, if his lungs are constricted and filled with fluid. He can usually breathe better when sitting in an upright position. In very severe cases of RSV, your infant's skin may turn blue from lack of oxygen, which would warrant prompt medical attention.
Fever
Depending upon the severity, the virus may cause your baby to have a low-grade or high fever. Your infant's pediatrician will advise you on a treatment plan to help reduce and treat your baby's fever. Depending on how high her fever is, your doctor may need to see her rather than give advice over the phone so that he can better assess her condition.
Diminished Appetite
A common symptom of RSV is diminished appetite. You will notice your baby is not eating as usual--in some cases, he might not want to eat at all. Your infant may also spit up during or after feedings.
