Hygiene measures

It is especially important to avoid the risks associated with transmission through the hands or the air (coughing, sneezing). Here are some simple steps you can take to put luck in your favor:

– wash your hands often and thoroughly;

– do not expose the child to second-hand smoke, whether at home or in public places;

– do not put the child in the presence of infected people. It should be noted that the stay in daycare significantly increases the risk of being infected by the respiratory syncytial virus. Ideally, during an epidemic, it will be preferable not to enroll the child in a daycare before the age of six months to prevent severe forms of bronchiolitis;

– kiss the baby on the legs and hands rather than on the face. This recommendation applies in particular to brothers and sisters who frequent places at risk during an epidemic: school, daycare, etc .;

– daily disinfect objects (bottles, toys, kitchen utensils, etc.) and surfaces in contact with the young child.

Breastfeeding

As with most childhood illnesses, breastfeeding provides the baby with the antibodies that the baby has not yet had time to develop. Studies tend to confirm the protective effect of breastfeeding against bronchiolitis^2,3,4. According to one of these studies, this protective effect would be stronger in children exposed to cigarette smoke.³.