Many parents are growing concerned about the spread of RSV, a respiratory virus that affects babies and other very young children. While RSV is common this time of year, the number of cases reported this year is higher than normal. So what can parents do to slow the spread of RSV and the potential for serious illness in babies and very young children? RaeAnn Tucker, spokesperson for the Henry and Stark County Health Department says, one of the keys is to make sure you take care of your own health, especially including getting vaccinated for COVID-19 and getting a flu shot.

Children under 6 months old have the biggest risk related to RSV and parents should watch for babies who are lethargic, not eating, wheezing or struggling to breathe. If these symptoms are present you should consider getting your child checked out in a clinic setting or with your primary care doctor.