Harris County ESD 11 Medical Director Dr. Jay Kovar is urging Spring-area parents to watch for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) in young children.
RSV can look like a common cold at first, with a runny nose, congestion, coughing, decreased appetite and fever, according to an ESD 11 advisory published Oct. 22. In some children, the infection can progress and cause difficulty breathing or other complications.
"Parents know their children better than anyone," Kovar said in the advisory. "If your child is having difficulty breathing, is becoming unusually sleepy or difficult to wake, is not taking in enough fluids, or you are concerned that something is seriously wrong, don't hesitate to seek medical attention."
The agency listed several warning signs that should prompt parents to seek a medical evaluation:
- Difficulty or increased effort when breathing
- Rapid breathing or noticeable changes in breathing
- Poor fluid intake or signs of dehydration
- A significant decrease in activity or responsiveness
- Persistent or worsening symptoms
- A child who appears to be getting worse rather than better
Changes in feeding, breathing or behavior can be especially important warning signs in infants and young children, the advisory said.
Kovar also said RSV appears every year and that being informed can help parents recognize when a child's illness may be more serious. Knowing what to look for and when to seek help "can make an important difference," he said.
Kovar shared the RSV guidance in the October installment of ESD 11's "Hey Dr. K" video series, a monthly program in which the medical director addresses health and safety topics for residents. An August installment covered e-bike injury prevention.
ESD 11 Mobile Healthcare covers a 177-square-mile area of northern Harris County that includes more than 700,000 residents. The agency said it handles more than 65,000 calls per year.
Parents with non-emergency questions can call ESD 11 at 281-524-7660. For emergencies, call 911.
