Bronchiolitis (and RSV)

Every winter we see many young patients with bronchiolitis, often caused by the virus RSV ("respiratory syncytial virus"), which usually circulates in our area from November through the end of April (sometimes into May).  The main symptoms are a congested and runny nose, cough, and fever.  It usually peaks around days 3-5 of the illness, and often causes frequent coughing, a chest "rattle" or wheezing sound, and can sometimes lead to shortness of breath from excessive wheezing and bronchial irritation.  After day five of symptoms, it usually starts gradually improving - but the cough may take anywhere from 10-21 days to resolve.  

If your child has an unusually bad or persistent cough, any noticeable wheezing or labored breathing, or seems unusually weak or low energy with any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention. Please call for an appointment or if you are unsure if an appointment is needed. 

Fortunately, since 2023, we have been able to offer the injection Beyfortus to young infants to prevent the complications of RSV infection.  Beyfortus (generic name: nirsevimab) is a monoclonal antibody that may be given after birth and up until the age of 8 months, to any infant under 8 months old during RSV season.  Beyfortus is not necessary if the baby's mother received the RSV vaccine called Abrysvo during pregnancy (and was given at least 2 weeks prior to baby's birth). 

We are happy to discuss any of this with you if you have questions or are concerned that your child has or may have bronchiolitis.