RSV & Roseola

RSV. Its hit us. We avoided it last winter with a mandatory lock-down and Synagis injections but this winter, we got it. RSV is Respiratory syncytial (sin-SISH-uhl) virus, or RSV, is a respiratory virus that infects the lungs and breathing passages. Most otherwise healthy people recover from RSV infection in 1 to 2 weeks. However, infection can be severe in some people, such as certain infants, young children, and older adults. In fact, RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lung) and pneumonia in children under 1 year of age in the United States. In addition, RSV is more often being recognized as an important cause of respiratory illness in older adults.

All preemies born before 35 weeks gestation who are less than 6 months of age during RSV season (October-April) can qualify for Synagis injections. The girls had the injections. They are immunoglobulin shots given every 28 days that provide protection from the virus. Some preemies that are born really early or high order multiples have to be on RSV lock-down for 2 winter seasons. Our girls did not. They are 'healthy preemies' in that they were born at 34 weeks.

Addisen had her first real 'cough' this week and I took her to the pediatrician this morning (nevermind that I was JUST there on Friday with Parker for roseola which is another story in itself). A quick exam and a nasal swab showed RSV. Our pediatrician is not terribly concerned at this point because she is not running a temp right now, is still eating and drinking well and is not needing a nebulizer. We are instructed to watch for wheezing, dehydration and a high temp over the next few days. Cool mist humidifier will be running constantly and its a matter of time before Parker gets it...back to back RSV. Nice.

So, in the next 1-2 weeks, the girls will be swapping illnesses. Parker WILL get the RSV without a doubt and Addisen will likely be showing signs of Roseola soon. Roseola is also known as sixth disease, exanthem subitum, and roseola infantum and is a viral illness in young children, most commonly affecting those between the ages of 6 months and 2 years. It is typically marked by several days of high fever, followed by a distinctive rash just as the fever breaks.

Please pray for our household over the next couple of weeks. I am just so proud that we managed to stay away from RSV until the girls were old enough to handle it better.


"Hi five sister! We are keeping them BUSY!"