Parents of newborns: learn about RSV and how it could affect you

I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting (#MC) for MedImmune. I received a promotional item as a thank you for participating.

When I found out I was pregnant with twins 10 years ago, I knew that one of the biggest risks they faced was premature (gestation period of 37 weeks or less).  It was a scary thought.  My husband's nephew was born at 27 weeks; he was so small, he fit into my sister-in-law's palm!  He was extremely lucky in that he ended up with no adverse consequences of his premature birth, and we were also very lucky in that our twin boys were born at 38 weeks, which is considered full term even for single births.

Sadly, 13 million premature babies are born worldwide each year, many with serious health challenges. Over 1 million preemies have died from complications this year alone.  That's why it's' so important to spread awareness of the potential risks of preterm births, and ways for parents to help protect their babies. With cold and flu season coming up, and with November 17 being World Prematurity Day, it's the perfect time to remind parents of preemies of the risks associated with RSV.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) affects nearly all babies under age 2, but preterm infants are at far higher risk of serious complications from RSV, due to their underdeveloped lungs and immune systems. It's the leading cause for hospitalization of babies under 1 year, and about 400 babies die from RSV every year.  RSV can be fatal for preterm infants, so MedImmune has come up with an infographic to help parents determine whether their baby is at risk for RSV, how to reduce the risk of contracting RSV and how to recognize the symptoms.  I encourage parents of infants everywhere to educate themselves about RSV.  The infographic below is a great place to start, and for more information, go to RSVProtection.com. It could save your baby's life!

Disclosure: I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting (#MC) for MedImmune. I received a promotional item as a thank you for participating. The views and opinions expressed here are my own.
Tweet this!