As Hospitals across America are seeing a surge in Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) among infants and young children Valley Health (VH) announced some things to be aware of when it comes to the illness.

Typically RSV causes mild cold like symptoms such as runny nose, decreased appetite, coughing, sneezing, fever and wheezing.

Symptoms typically last a week maybe two and clear up with rest and fluids.

However RSV can become serious in infants and older adults.

VH Pediatrician Dr. Kristen Cercone of Winchester Pediatric Clinic has some signs to look for in infants less than six months of age and older infants and toddlers especially with underlying health conditions.

Signs to watch for might include your child taking prolonged pauses in breathing.

A child working harder to breathe or having trouble drinking because of congestion or the way they are breathing could be a sign of RSV.

It is important to have a child that might be struggling evaluated by a health care provider.

It is important to remember that your primary care provider or VH Urgent Cares are often the quickest easiest way to get a diagnosis.

Keep in mind that emergency departments are for emergencies.

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