Bronchiolitis is a common respiratory illness that affects infants and young children. It is caused by a viral infection that leads to inflammation and swelling of the small airways in the lungs.

The condition is most commonly caused by the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), but can also be caused by other viruses such as adenovirus and influenza.

Symptoms of bronchiolitis

In infants, symptoms of bronchiolitis usually begin with a runny nose and cough. As the infection progresses, the infant may develop wheezing, difficulty breathing and a high fever.

The symptoms can last for several days, with the infant typically feeling unwell and irritable throughout the duration of the illness.

When does bronchiolitis occur?

Bronchiolitis is most common during the winter months, typically between November and March. This is when RSV is most prevalent. The virus spreads through coughing and sneezing and can survive on surfaces for several hours.

Infants and young children who attend daycare or preschool are particularly at risk of contracting bronchiolitis due to the close proximity and increased exposure to other children who may have the virus.

Who is most at risk of bronchiolitis?

Infants under six months of age are at the highest risk of developing bronchiolitis, particularly if they were born prematurely or have underlying health conditions such as congenital heart disease or lung disease.

Infants who are exposed to second-hand smoke are also at a higher risk of developing severe symptoms. Young children between six months and two years of age are also susceptible to bronchiolitis, but their symptoms are typically less severe than those seen in infants under six months.

Preventing bronchiolitis

There is no specific vaccine available for bronchiolitis, but there are measures that parents and caregivers can take to reduce the risk of their child contracting the virus.

These include washing hands frequently, avoiding close contact with individuals who are sick, and keeping infants away from smoke and pollution. Infants who are at high risk of developing severe symptoms may be eligible for immunoprophylaxis using palivizumab, a monoclonal antibody that helps to prevent RSV infections.

Treating bronchiolitis

There is no specific treatment for bronchiolitis, and most infants will recover on their own within a few days to a week.

Treatment typically involves managing the symptoms, such as providing fluids to prevent dehydration, giving fever-reducing medication, and using a cool mist humidifier to ease breathing. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary to provide oxygen therapy and ensure adequate hydration and nutrition.

When to seek medical attention

Parents and caregivers should seek medical attention if their infant shows signs of severe respiratory distress, such as difficulty breathing, wheezing, or bluish-colored lips or nails.

Infants who are lethargic, refusing to feed, or running a high fever should also be evaluated by a healthcare provider. Prompt medical attention can help to prevent complications and ensure a speedy recovery.

Conclusion

Bronchiolitis is a common respiratory illness that affects infants and young children, typically during the winter months. It is caused by a viral infection that leads to inflammation and swelling of the small airways in the lungs.

While there is no specific treatment for bronchiolitis, most infants will recover on their own within a few days to a week. Parents and caregivers can take measures to reduce the risk of their child contracting bronchiolitis by practicing good hand hygiene and avoiding close contact with sick individuals.

Infants who are at high risk of developing severe symptoms may be eligible for immunoprophylaxis using palivizumab, a monoclonal antibody that helps to prevent RSV infections.