Bronchiolitis, caused by the respiratory syncitial virus (VSR), is one of the main reasons for hospitalization of babies under 1 year in Brazil. According to Fiocruz’s Infogipe Bulletin, in the last four weeks, VRS was responsible for about 45% of positive cases of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SRAG), especially in children up to 2 years.

A bronchiolitis It is a respiratory infection that affects bronchioles, small airways of the lungs. The most common symptoms include cough, chest squeaking, difficulty breathing, fever, runny nose and appetite. In severe cases, the disease can cause respiratory failure and require hospitalization. Note any symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

With the arrival of the fall and the largest circulation of the virus, the health care of the little ones should be redoubled. To assist parents and caregivers, Dr. Alberto Chebabo, infectologist at Sérgio weak laboratory and Bronstein, lists five measures to protect babies from bronchiolitis. Check it out!

1. Breastfeeding

Breast milk is rich in antibodies and strengthens the immune system of the babyprotecting it against various infections, including VSr. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding up to 6 months and continued up to 2 years or older.

2. Hygienize your hands

We learned during the Covid-19 pandemic that handwashing helps to avoid many diseases. Therefore, sanitize them with soap and water, especially before touching the baby, and encourage other family members, visitors and caregivers to do the same.

3. Removal of sick people

Prevent the baby from having contact with people who have symptoms of gripe or cold. If someone in the family is sick, ask to wear mask and wash their hands frequently.

4. Ventilated environment and outdoor jokes

Keep airy environments, opening windows and doors for air circulation. Avoid closed and crowded places. According to the infectologist, we are already in the time of greater circulation of the VSR, so opt for outdoor tours and games. Besides reducing the risk of Contaminationcontact with nature helps strengthen immunity.

5. New monoclonal antibody

It is now available for babies up to 2 years old the Nrysevimab monoclonal antibody, known by the name commercial Beyfortus®. With only one dose, the drug offers protection against VSR for up to five months, period of higher circulation of the virus.

“VSR is more dangerous for babies up to 1 year, whose immune system is immature. Therefore, this novelty is so important and helps to avoid pneumonia, flu and bronchiolitis, some of the main causes of hospitalization of children of this age group in Brazil,” says Dr. Alberto Chebabo.

Unlike vaccineswhich stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies, the monoclonal antibody provides antibodies ready to act on the baby’s body. This passive immunization guarantees immediate protection and is considered safe, even for premature and low -weight babies, as the infectologist explains.

By Rachel Lopes