more about a common, highly contagious and potentially serious virus may help parents protect their babies—especially in the increasingly likely event that their babies are premature. The annual rate of premature births soared more than 27 per- cent between 1981 and 2001, with prematurity now affecting one out of every eight babies. One of the many health problems premature children face is an elevated risk for contracting RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) disease. RSVis the most common cause of lower respiratory tract infection in children underfive years of age and the number one reason for The best tool for preventing RSV is education. Parents can talk to their pediatricians about what to do. fever, runny nose, and coughing. hospitalization of children under the age of one. According to the An infected baby can get very sick 125,000 children are hospitalized a blue color around thelips. Since RSV complications can strike Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), each year up to with serious RSV disease. “We are seeing an increase in premature births and this will likely result in a rise in the num- ber of cases of serious RSV disease,” said Dr. William Sears, pediatrician and author. Because prematurebirth inter- very quickly with difficulty breathing, difficulty eating, wheezing (a whistling sound), and rapidly, parents of at-risk children need to act fast by calling their baby’s doctor immediately if com- plications appear. There is a medication, Synagis (palivizumab), indicated for the rupts the final stages of normal prevention of serious lower respiratory tract disease caused by res- ture infant is at risk for contracting serious RSV disease. pediatric patients at high risk of RSV disease. Synagis has been lung development, each prema“There are simple things fami- piratory syncytial virus (RSV) in used safely in hundreds of babies. lies and caregivers can do to help keep children healthy, like wash Adverse events with Synagis may include upper respiratory tract in contact with the baby, avoid visiting crowded places, limit runny nose. Very rare cases of severe allergic reactions such as their hands every time they come exposure to people with colds or fevers, avoid secondhand smoke, and talk to their doctor,” said Sears. “It is important that par- ents of premature babies discuss these steps with their doctors.” According to PreemieCare, an organization which educates the public about premature babies, RSV symptoms mayinitially be similar to a cold and include: infection, ear infection, fever, and anaphylaxis (<1 case per 100,000 patients) and hypersensitivity reactions have been reported. Synagis should not be used in patients with a history of a severe prior reaction to Synagis or its components. For more information about RSV, call 1-877-848-8512, visit the PreemieCare Website at www.MOSTonline.org, or visit www.rsvprotection.com.
