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In contrast to the less dangerous coronavirus for newborns, the RS virus remains the main cause of lower and upper respiratory tract infections that can lead to respiratory failure in premature babies, and its treatment often requires the use of a respirator. State-funded prophylaxis protects babies against the dire consequences of infection, hospital stay and separation from their parents.
From October to April, the RS virus, or respiratory syncytial virus, attacks infants and premature babies, leading to severe pneumonia and bronchitis. – That is why children in the first year of life should be given ready-made antibodies that directly destroy the virus – says Prof. dr hab. n. med. Ewa Helwich, national consultant in the field of neonatology, head of the Department of Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care, Institute of Mother and Child in Warsaw.
RS is circling in the air
The RS virus present in the air appears seasonally, in Poland from late autumn to spring. Every year, 90% of premature babies are exposed to this pathogen. It causes infections in 70% of children under the age of two. In term babies, it can only cause a slight runny nose or cough, but in premature babies it is at risk of severe upper and lower respiratory tract infection, including bronchitis, bronchiolitis, and even lung inflammation.
These types of infections often cause respiratory distress and apnea, which must be treated in the hospital with a ventilator. Breathing disorders can lead to hypoxia, which can lead to serious health complications. Additional complications are very common in toddlers infected with the RS virus. It may be pneumothorax, otitis media or hospital infections associated with a long stay in the neonatal ward. Children who become infected with RS virus are four times more likely to develop bronchial asthma later in life.
Helpless premature babies
Infection with RS virus can occur in the first weeks of a baby’s life. It is associated with an underdeveloped respiratory system and an immature immune system. A newborn baby, especially in the first months of life, benefits from the mother’s antibodies, which are transmitted mainly in the third trimester of pregnancy.
In premature babies, especially those born before the third trimester, antibody levels may be too low and therefore not sufficient to protect against infections. Additionally, due to premature birth, the alveoli do not reach full maturity, and at birth these babies are ten times more likely to develop lower respiratory tract infections than those born at term.
Immunization during a pandemic
Experts urge that children should not be immunized because of fears of coronavirus infection. – There are 67 centers in Poland where antibodies against the RS virus are administered. All points are properly prepared to give them to premature babies in safe conditions and with the use of a sanitary regime – assures prof. Ewa Helwich.
At all immunization points, parents receive safe visit packages containing gloves, masks and disinfectant. Immunization protects your baby from illness and hospital stay, which can be much more risky than going to the clinic. In addition, in times of a pandemic, treatment in many hospitals involves separation from the mother. Meanwhile – as experts emphasize – a premature baby does not really recognize colors and sounds, but for his emotions, the presence of his mother is crucial.
Rescuing antibodies
The immune system fights viral infections caused by the virus by producing antibodies. In infants who are underdeveloped, specific antibodies are administered to limit the entry of the RS virus. As a consequence, it stops it from multiplying and spreading in the body. The first dose of the drug should be given at the beginning of the disease season.
After about 28 days, the antibody level drops and another dose is required to further protect the baby from the virus. Administering the full course of five doses between October and April protects premature babies from re-entering the intensive care unit. Children born before 33 weeks of pregnancy can benefit from free prophylaxis. It’s best to talk to your doctor about how to protect your baby. It is worth remembering, especially during a pandemic, because fewer diseases mean fewer hospital stays and fewer health complications.