Thus, RSV can be spread by touching contaminated objects, and then touching the nose and eyes. Hospital nursery units, day care centers and other institutions are at high risk for RSV outbreaks. An infant having his first infection with RSV will have symptoms that range from those of a mild cold to severe bronchiolitis or pneumonia. RSV infection frequently begins with nasal discharge, sore throat and cough. Hoarseness or laryngitis is not common.
Fever occurs in most young children during the initial two to four days of illness.
With time, cough increases, the breathing rate increases and the child exhibits difficulty breathing. Since RSV cannot be totally avoided, particularly in children who are exposed to many other children in child care centers and schools, parents need to watch out for runny noses and coughing in their children. If your child has these symptoms, give him plenty of fluids, treat the fever and be sure to call your doctor if he has difficulty breathing.