How to Identify Risk Factors for RSV

Learning a child has RSV, which stands for Respiratory Syncytial Virus, is alarming news for any parent. While this condition is scary, it is also relatively common, affecting most children by two years old. People with certain risk factors for RSV are more likely to contract it. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

• 1

  Know that babies who are under six months old are at greater risk for developing RSV. Children who were born prematurely, and are under one year old, are also at greater risk.

• 2

  Monitor children born with a congenital heart condition more closely for the emergence of RSV symptoms.

• 3

  Understand that children who've been diagnosed with any chronic lung condition have an increased risk of developing RSV.

• 4

  Note that children who did not receive the protective benefits of breastfeeding may also be at a greater risk for developing RSV.

• 5

  Expect a greater risk of RSV when the immune system is weakened by illness or certain treatments such as chemotherapy.

• 6

  Anticipate a higher probability of contracting RSV when a significant amount of time is spent in a day care, hospital, nursing home or school.

• 7

  Realize that RSV can strike adults, especially those who've been diagnosed with congestive heart failure or a case of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Also, senior citizens are more likely to contract RSV.