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Bronchiolitis (RSV)

Also called: Bronchiolitis, RSV, respiratory syncytial virus

A viral infection of the small airways in babies and toddlers. It starts like a cold, then brings cough, wheezing, and fast breathing. Most babies get better at home.

AgeUnder 2 years
CauseUsually RSV
PreventionRSV antibody shots for babies or a vaccine in pregnancy

Overview

Symptoms are often worst on days 3 to 5, and the cough can last 2 to 3 weeks.

Babies under 6 months, premature babies, and those with heart or lung problems are at higher risk of needing the hospital.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Cough and wheezing in a baby

Less common

  • Fast breathing
  • Runny nose
  • Fever

When to get medical care

Call 911Struggling to breathe, skin pulling in at the ribs, blue or gray lips, or pauses in breathing.
Get care todayNot feeding well, fewer than 3 wet diapers a day, or a baby under 3 months with fever.
See a doctor soonSymptoms getting worse after day 5, or an ear infection.

Causes

RSV and other viruses.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • Yes, it can spread from person to person.
  • How it spreads: coughs, sneezes, or touching surfaces.
  • Washing hands often and staying home when sick help protect others.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Babies under 6 months
  • Premature babies

Possible complications

Diagnosis

A clinician listens to your baby's breathing.

Questions you may be asked

  • Feeding and wet diapers
  • Pauses in breathing

The exam

Breathing rate and oxygen check.

Treatment

Comfort care helps most babies.

Self-care

  • Use saline drops and a bulb syringe to clear the nose, especially before feeds
  • Offer smaller, more frequent feeds
  • Use a cool-mist humidifier
  • Keep your baby away from smoke

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

MedicineHelps withGood to know
Fever reducers
Fever and comfortDose by weight; ask first under 3 months.

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Antibiotics don't help viruses. Some babies need oxygen or fluids in the hospital.

Prevention

To prevent it:

  • RSV protection for babies
  • Handwashing
  • Keep sick people away from babies

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your child's pediatrician.
  • They may send you to a pediatric specialist: a pulmonologist (lung doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

  • Keep your child home until they've had no fever for 24 hours without fever medicine and feel better.
  • For the next few days, wash hands often and teach them to cough into an elbow.

For caregivers

  • Learn the warning signs and when to call the doctor or 911.
  • Keep a list of your child's medicines, doses, and doctors on your phone.
  • Tell teachers, coaches, and sitters what to watch for and what to do.
  • Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Most babies recover in 1 to 2 weeks.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

  • Should my baby get the RSV shot?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Bronchiolitis (RSV)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.