RSV, or Respiratory Syncytial Virus, is a major cause of respiratory illness in young children.

Hi, I’m Dr. John Hellerstedt and this CHILDREN’S HEALTH MINUTE is presented by TexCare – connecting Texas families with children’s health insurance for 18 dollars a month or less. 

In adults and older children, symptoms of RSV infection are usually similar to the common cold. But in infants and young children, RSV can cause a lower respiratory tract illness similar to asthma.  For infants who have diseased or immature lungs, RSV can be very dangerous. 

Symptoms may include high fever, severe cough, wheezing and rapid or labored breathing.

If your child has these symptoms, call your doctor.  Young children or infants with severe RSV may need to be treated in a hospital.

This is Dr. John Hellerstedt, reminding you that no child should be without health insurance.  Call TexCare at 1-800-647-6558 to apply.