As RSV season approaches, many parents have questions and concerns about keeping infants and young children healthy. At PurePediatrics, our priority is supporting our member families with proactive guidance, timely prevention strategies, and direct pediatrician access.
What Is RSV and Why Does It Matter?
RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) is a leading cause of respiratory illness in kids during the fall and winter months, and being prepared can make a real difference!
It often causes cold-like symptoms but can lead to serious lung issues – especially in infants, young children, and older adults.
It’s one of the leading causes of hospitalization among infants in the U.S. every year.
PurePediatrics closely monitors RSV trends in Houston, and we do our best to keep our patients updated on local surges, CDC recommendations, and the prevention strategies.
When Is RSV Season in Houston?
RSV season usually starts in the fall, peaks in winter, and fades by spring. In Houston, RSV season starts in October and can go through April. Since the timing of RSV season can differ from year to year and by region, PurePediatrics provides timely updates to keep member families informed as local RSV activity increases.
Symptoms to Watch For in Children
Our pediatricians encourage parents to watch for RSV symptoms, especially during peak season:
• Early signs: Runny nose, mild cough, or decreased appetite
• As symptoms progress: Wheezing, fever, or rapid breathing (these can develop within just a few days—especially in infants)
• In very young babies: Irritability, decreased activity, or pauses in breathing (apnea)
If your child develops any of these symptoms and you’re a PurePediatrics member, you can message your doctor directly through the Spruce app for personalized guidance and next steps.
Who’s at Higher Risk for Severe RSV?
- Infants under 6 months (especially those born prematurely)
- Children with weakened immune systems, lung/heart conditions, or neuromuscular problems
- Older adults (75+) and adults 50–74 with chronic health conditions
PurePediatrics provides extra monitoring and support for high-risk children and can help you develop a personalized prevention plan as part of our membership.
How RSV Spreads and Prevention Tips
RSV spreads through respiratory droplets – coughs, sneezes, close contact, and contaminated surfaces.
PurePediatrics recommends:
- Frequent handwashing (especially before touching your child’s face or feeding)
- Avoiding exposure to anyone with cold symptoms
- Disinfecting surfaces and toys regularly
Vaccines & Antibodies Available for RSV Protection
For RSV Season 2025, PurePediatrics offers up-to-date information on:
- Maternal RSV vaccine: Recommended for pregnant women (weeks 32–36) to protect newborns
- Long-acting RSV antibodies (e.g., nirsevimab): Available for infants after birth for added protection
- Adult RSV vaccine: Recommended for adults 75+ and those 50–74 with risk factors
What to Do If Your Child Seems Sick
• Monitor breathing carefully. Fast breathing, chest retractions (belly or ribs pulling in and out), or pauses in breathing are warning signs.
• Keep your child comfortable. Offer fluids frequently, ensure plenty of rest, and avoid smoke or other air irritants.
• Seek medical care promptly if your child has persistent high fever, difficulty breathing, or appears unusually tired or unresponsive.
Frequently Asked Questions About RSV
What makes RSV different in infants vs older kids?
Infants may worsen quickly with breathing problems or apnea; older kids usually have mild, cold-like symptoms.
Can adults spread RSV even if they feel fine?
Yes. Asymptomatic or mild cases can still spread the virus.
Is hospitalization common with RSV?
Hospitalization is rare in healthy children, but can occur. It’s more common in high-risk infants or older adults.
Conclusion
PurePediatrics is here to help families face RSV season with confidence. Early recognition of symptoms, understanding risk factors, and using available vaccines or antibodies can help protect your child.
If you’re interested in the benefits of concierge pediatric care – including 24/7 access to your pediatrician, rapid responses through the Spruce app, and expert support during RSV season – learn more about membership here or contact us online to request an introductory call.
