When I had my first child in 2009, I knew nothing about prematurity and it wasn’t really discussed in any of my parenting/child classes. It wasn’t until I became pregnant in 2011 with twins that I even discussed it with my doctor. Since twins are more likely to be born premature, they made sure we knew all about it. It left me wondering why all parents aren’t given the same information more regularly. Fortunately, I was able to carry my girls to 38 weeks, which my doctor’s deemed safe. Still, we treated them more carefully than we did our son, who was born at 42 weeks. We were much more protective with who came in contact with the babies. We kept visits to to a minimum and used hand washing/hand sanitizer frequently, knowing their little immune systems were till developing. We made sure our three year old son also knew how to help his little sister stay healthy – by washing his hands before touching them and being careful not to spread any germs.
Prematurity : The Risks
What is RSV?
RSV is contracted by nearly all children by the age of two, often only causing minor symptoms that mimic the common cold. However, preemies are risk if they contract this. They can develop much more serious symptoms, including a serious respiratory infection (severe RSV disease) because their lungs are underdeveloped. They also don’t yet have the antibodies needed to fight off infection.
A few quick facts that all parents should know about RSV:
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RSV is the leading cause of infant hospitalization, and severe RSV disease causes up to 10 times as many infant deaths each year as the flu.
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RSV is most prevalent during the winter months. The CDC has defined the “RSV season” as beginning in November and lasting through March for most parts of North America.
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In addition to prematurity, common risk factors include low birth weight, certain lung or heart diseases, a family history of asthma and frequent contact with other children.
Prevention
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Wash hands, toys, bedding, and play areas frequently
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Ensure you, your family, and any visitors in your home wash their hands or use hand sanitizer
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Avoid large crowds and people who are or have been sick
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Never let anyone smoke near your baby
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Speak with your child’s doctor if he or she may be at high risk for RSV, as a preventive therapy may be available
Know the Symptoms
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Severe coughing, wheezing or rapid gasping breaths
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Blue color on the lips, mouth, or under the fingernails
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