RSV
RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) usually looks like a mild cold, but in babies and young children it can lead to bronchiolitis or pneumonia. Here's how to spot it early, when to call the pediatrician, and whether it's spreading near you right now.
Common symptoms
- Runny nose
- Cough
- Sneezing
- Fever
- Wheezing
- Decreased appetite
- Irritability
- Difficulty breathing (especially in infants)
When to see a doctor
Most RSV can be managed at home, but it can turn into bronchiolitis or pneumonia, especially in babies under 6 months. Call your pediatrician the same day, or head to the ER, if you see any of these:
- •Fast, labored breathing, or pauses in breathing
- •Nostrils flaring, grunting, or the chest pulling in between or below the ribs with each breath
- •Wheezing or a worsening cough
- •Bluish color around the lips, mouth, or fingernails
- •Refusing to feed, or fewer wet diapers than usual (signs of dehydration)
- •Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher in a baby under 3 months
- •Extreme sleepiness or unusual irritability
Premature babies, infants under 6 months, and children with heart, lung, or immune conditions are at highest risk for severe RSV. For them, call your pediatrician early rather than waiting it out.
Cause
RSV is caused by a virus.
How common is it?
RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in U.S. children under age 1. According to CDC data, RSV causes approximately 58,000-80,000 hospitalizations and 100-300 deaths annually in children under 5. Virtually all children are infected with RSV by age 2.
Treatment
There is no specific cure for RSV, so treatment focuses on managing symptoms. This includes ensuring your child gets plenty of fluids, using a humidifier to ease congestion, and over-the-counter fever reducers (like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, if age-appropriate) as directed by your pediatrician.
What parents keep on hand
These are everyday supplies parents tell us they like to have on hand, not medical advice. Nothing here diagnoses or treats anything. Always follow your pediatrician's guidance, and check labels for your child's age and weight.
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- ThermometerA reading you trust settles most of the should-we-call-the-doctor debate. One is enough, so pick the style that suits your child's age.
- Kids' fever and pain relieverHave both acetaminophen and ibuprofen options on hand and dose by weight.
- Oral medicine syringe setFar easier than a spoon for an unhappy toddler, and far more accurate.
- Saline nose spray or dropsLoosens a stuffy nose for babies and toddlers who can't blow yet.
Prevention
To prevent the spread of RSV, encourage frequent handwashing with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Avoid close contact with sick people, and clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces. If your child is an infant or has underlying health conditions, discuss preventative measures like palivizumab with your pediatrician.
See what's going around
Track RSV and other illnesses at your child's school in real time.
Frequently asked questions
RSV articles for parents
- January 2026RSV Cases Rising in Chicago: What Parents Need to Know This WinterRSV hospitalizations are climbing among children under 5 in Chicago. Here's how to protect your family and recognize symptoms early.
- October 2025When Should Kids Stay Home from School?Guidelines to help parents make the tough call about keeping sick kids home.
- December 2025Managing School Sick Days: A Chicago Working Parent's Survival GuideWhen your child is sick and you have work, something has to give. Practical strategies for Chicago parents juggling careers and caregiving.
Is it RSV or just a cold?
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Medical disclaimer: Educational only. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.