Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Infection

Call 911 or other emergency services right away if:

• Your child has Reference severe trouble breathing Opens New Window.
• Your child's breathing has stopped.
  • Begin Reference rescue breathing Opens New Window Reference Opens New Window.

See your doctor right away if your baby or child has Reference moderate trouble breathing Opens New Window.

Call a doctor if your child:

• Breathes slightly faster than Reference normal and seems to be getting worse. Most healthy children breathe less than 40 times a minute.
• Has cold symptoms that become severe.
• Has shallow coughing, which continues throughout the day and night.
• Has poor appetite or decreased activity level.
• Has any trouble breathing.

For more information on what to do if your child has trouble breathing, see Reference Respiratory Problems, Age 11 and Younger.

Watchful waiting

For an otherwise healthy child who has symptoms of an Reference upper respiratory infection Opens New Window, such as a cough or runny nose, home treatment usually is all that is needed. But it is important to watch for signs and symptoms of complications, such as Reference dehydration Opens New Window.

Watchful waiting may not be appropriate when your child with an upper respiratory infection has Reference an increased risk for complications. Watch your child closely if he or she has symptoms of an upper respiratory infection. If symptoms get worse or new symptoms develop, see a doctor right away.

Who to see

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection can be diagnosed and treated by a health professional such as a:

• Reference Family physician Opens New Window.
• Reference Pediatrician Opens New Window.
• Reference Nurse practitioner Opens New Window.
• Reference Physician assistant Opens New Window.

To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Reference Making the Most of Your Appointment.

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.