RSV Tips for Newborns

Baby River is here and honestly, I’ve been thinking about the whole visitor policy since well before she was born. Penelope was born during the start of the pandemic, so there was already a sense of caution with visitors when she was born. Now, though, people tend to forget that a newborn can easily contract respiratory viruses and infections… so it’s important to remind everyone of ways to keep our babies healthy during RSV season.

RSV is so common that nearly 100% of children have been infected with the virus by age two. Most people, including infants, develop only mild symptoms similar to that of a common cold but for some, it can be severe and even life threatening. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when keeping infants and children safe from RSV:

– Stay away if you are sneezing, coughing, or feeling sick. We’ve told family that even if they feel the slightest tickle in their throat, to just wait it out before visiting Baby River.

– Anyone who DOES touch the baby must have clean hands. Washing thoroughly with soap and water can help eliminate germs that would have ended up on Baby’s skin or face.

– Avoid sharing cups, bottles or toys that may be contaminated with the virus.

– Keep baby away from large crowds, as you can’t control the environment around you. 

– No kisses! We know that infants are irresistible and you just want to snuggle in their cheeks and necks but do not allow others to kiss your baby on the face or hands. Babies put their hands in their mouths!

– Clean and disinfect all hard surfaces to keep from transmitting germs around the house

I hope these tips help! Let’s keep our babies safe and healthy this season!

Un Besito,
Rocío