Influenza and RSV season is upon us.  

Both influenza (the flu) and RSV are viral respiratory illnesses that will generally resolve on their own with supportive care, but certain populations are at higher risk for severe disease and secondary infections.

Quick facts about influenza:  Influenza tends to hit suddenly with fever, cough, and weakness.  Higher risk populations like young children, and those with chronic diseases like asthma may benefit from taking Tamiflu, an antiviral medication, if started within the first 48 hours of illness.  Cases can be mild through severe, and we are available to help assess your child as needed.  Call us with any sudden worsening of a child that has had flu like symptoms.  Vomiting and diarrhea are not a primary feature of influenza, but can occur.

Quick facts about RSV:  RSV causes cough, congestion, and fever, and is the most common cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in children under 1y.  Most cases of RSV are mild, but infants and young children may experience wheezing and trouble breathing, and some may need to be hospitalized.  Premature babies are at especially high risk.  Older children will likely just have common cold symptoms.  Care is generally supportive, a small percentage of children may benefit from nebulizer treatments.  We are available to assess your child as needed, and advise letting us know if you feel your child has trouble breathing.  Take particular caution if a child under 2m old has cold symptoms, and let us know of any concerns.  

Getting your yearly flu vaccine and routine hand washing/hygiene are, as always, the best way to help prevent respiratory infections!

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