I have to say I am truly blessed to have happy and healthy kids. Despite how much they can drive me crazy, I am so beyond thankful that they really have no health issues. I can only imagine what those parents whose kids have health problems must go through and the stress it can cause.
Did you know that 13 million babies are born early each year, meaning that they are born before 37 weeks gestation. Little Miss was only one week early and Little Man was exactly on time. They were full developed and scored high on all of their tests. When a baby is born before 37 weeks it puts them at such a higher risk of developing sickness. These babies regularly face weeks and sometimes months spent in the NICU, which absolutely breaks my heart.
Babies that are born early are at higher risk of respiratory infections due to the fact that their organs and lungs are sometimes not fully developed. One disease they are especially vulnerable to is RSV. RSV is contracted by most children before the age of two and mimics many symptoms of the common cold, but those children who were born prematurely are at a greater risk for developed severe RSV disease which can lead to hospitalization.
MedImmune RSV and Preemie Awareness- Could Your Baby Be at Risk?
RSV Quick Facts
RSV is the leading cause of infant hospitalization, and severe RSV disease causes up to 10 times as many infant deaths each year as the flu.
· RSV is most prevalent during the winter months. The CDC has defined the “RSV season” as beginning in November and lasting through March for most parts of North America.
· In addition to prematurity, common risk factors include low birth weight, certain lung or heart diseases, a family history of asthma and frequent contact with other children.
P Prevention is the key when it comes to RSV. Make sure to wash your hands regularly. Clean your child’s toys thoroughly. Don’t let anyone smoke around your baby. Avoid large crowds of people and most importantly stay in contact with your doctor if your child is at risk.
For more information and tips you can visit the RSV Protection website.
I wrote this review while participating in a campaign for Mom Central Consulting on behalf of MedImmune and I received a promotional item to thank me for my participation.
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