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RSV

Respiratory syncytial virus 

Cold, flu, and RSV season is here!

And from what we're observing, the 2022-2023 cold and flu season is going to be especially dangerous for vulnerable babies and families.

Respiratory infections are spreading in our schools and communities. COVID-19 is still with us. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections are on the rise. And we're just now entering flu season.

As these viruses spread, providers are telling us to prepare for this unprecedented "tri-demic."

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What's different this season?

During the COVID-19 pandemic - when we were all taking precautions to stop the spread of respiratory viruses - we saw the number of cases of RSV and flu go down. But as we return to a "new normal" and restrictions are relaxed, we're seeing a surge in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections.


If we're going to adapt to these changing conditions, we need to educate ourselves and each other

families

RSV is a Troublemaker!

WATCH:  General pediatrician Lynn Smitherman, MD, explains how the burden of RSV weighs heavily on babies, children and their families.

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What is RSV?

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is one version of the common cold.
For most healthy children and adults it will cause a slight cough, watery nasal congestion, and mild fever. But for many infants - including babies who were born prematurely or have certain health conditions - RSV can be much more serious and have devastating health consequences.

  • Some babies who get infected with RSV are sick for weeks - and quickly develop bronchiolitis or pneumonia

  • They may wheeze for months - or even years - and can go on to develop chronic lung disease.

  • Because it clogs their airways, many babies cannot get enough oxygen and must be admitted to the hospital for respiratory support.

  • Hospital admissions can last a week or longer.

  • The sickest babies may even need to be placed on a breathing machine or heart lung bypass.

  • Tragically, some babies infected with RSV die from its effects.
     

It may be the common cold for you...
but it can be life-threatening for some babies.

We love these resources from Sobi. 

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The Dangers of RSV

Neonatologist Vincent Smith, MD, explains why RSV can be dangerous for infants and young children.

What we can do.

We know that taking these steps will help us reduce the risks of respiratory infections:

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We love these resources from Sesame Street in Communities

Understanding RSV

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RSV is a really serious virus.

Spread the word - not the infection.

Share this video from the American Lung Association with people you care about.

How providers can help.

Providers can help reduce the burden of RSV infections in our communities by:

  • Knowing the signs and symptoms of severe respiratory infection

  • Tracking national data and trends at the CDC's website

  • Providing families and insurers with the information they need to access protective therapies

providers
advocacy

Advocating for evidence-based care for vulnerable infants.

The good news is that we have a proven, effective therapy and there are FDA-approved, evidence-based guidelines that describe which babies should have access to this medication. 


Babies who were born prematurely or who have compromised respiratory or immune systems can receive monthly antibody injections. When given as prophylaxis monthly during the RSV season these injections of monoclonal antibodies are an effective way to significantly decrease the risks of RSV infection for this vulnerable population. There is solid evidence that babies who were born prematurely or have compromised respiratory or immune systems benefit from these antibody injections.  


The National Perinatal Association

supports access to this much-needed therapy.

See our Evidence-Based Interdisciplinary Collaboration:

 

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Currently the NPA supports several initiatives to address this issue, including the following:

 

  • The revision of NPA's RSV Guidelines to reflect new data and information about RSV.

  • The creation of resources for parents and professionals that highlight current information about RSV and how to appeal insurer's decisions to deny access to RSV prophylaxis for a child who is at high risk.

  • Partnering with organizations to collaborate on effective ways to educate and inform the public, healthcare providers, payers and policy makers about this issue.

 

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2022 update

The Gap Baby: An RSV Story

Most young children encounter what’s known as Respiratory Syncytial Virus, or RSV, before age two. It’s a common seasonal virus with flu-like symptoms. But as this video from the National Coalition for Infant Health explains, premature infants whose health plans don’t cover preventive RSV treatment may suffer – and unnecessarily so.

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