Trinity, Texas - Risk of complications from RSV infection in children; Babies younger ...

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Babies younger than 1 year of age and other young children who become infected with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) have a high risk of developing complications, such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia.

Babies who have a high risk of developing complications from RSV include those who:

Are less than 6 months old.
Were born early (premature).
Have existing heart or lung disease.

Babies or children who have certain conditions are at a higher risk of developing complications from RSV. These conditions include:

Congenital heart disease.
Chronic lung disease, also known as bronchopulmonary dysplasia, and cystic fibrosis.
An impaired immune system, which can involve various health factors. For example, having a severe chronic illness, such as cancer, can affect the immune system. In addition, certain medicines, such as chemotherapy or steroids, suppress the immune system.
Exposure to tobacco smoke.

Author:	Amy Fackler, MA Debby Golonka, MPH	Last Updated: August 9, 2006
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics W. David Colby IV, MSc, MD, FRCPC - Infectious Disease

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