This is a compensated campaign in collaboration with MedImmune and Latina Bloggers Connect. All opinions are my own.

As a new mom, I have been trying to educate myself and Gabriel about  common viruses that babies can contract. And while researching about some of these common viruses, I learned about Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) which is an extremely common seasonal virus contracted by nearly 100 percent of babies by their second birthday.

What is really shocking is that although RSV is an extremely common virus, one-third of mothers have never heard of it, let alone know the dangers that RSV presents to their children.

So what does RSV look like? In healthy, full term babies it can cause mild to moderate cold-like symptoms. And in preterm babies it can develop into severe RSV due to their immature immune systems and under-developed lungs, which requires them to be hospitalized.  RSV more than often leads to a mild respiratory infection.

Some of the signs and symptoms of RSV that parents should look for  1) Persistent coughing or wheezing, 2) Rapid, difficult or grasping breaths, 3) Blush colour around lips, mouth or fingernails, 4) Fever (Especially if over 100.4F in babies under 3 months of age).

RSV is very contagious and can spread easily through touching, coughing and sneezing. It can also live on the skin and surfaces for hours, so it’s very important to keep things that baby comes into contact with CLEAN.

Prevention is critical when it comes to RSV disease because there is no treatment for it. Some tips to prevent RSV include: 1) Understanding the risk factors of RSV, and knowing if your baby may be at increased risk of catching RSV, 2) Washing hands! Everyone who is in contact with baby, 3) Keep toys, clothes, blankets and sheets clean, 4) Avoid crowds and other young children during RSV season (November- March).

I can’t stress enough how important it is for parents to not only be aware, but understand key facts about RSV to protect their children. If you would like to learn more about RSV and prevention don’t hesitate to ask your health care provider or by visiting www.rsvprevention.com