Doctor: Respiratory Virus 'Epidemic' In Detroit

Virus Especially Dangerous In Babies

POSTED: Wednesday, February 11,

DETROIT -- Da'Mone Scott is just 8 months old, and his mother Aqueelah has spent the last four days at Children's Hospital watching his every breath.

"He came in with a temperature of 103," Scott said. "It was very scary."

Doctors are treating Da'Mone for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).

"Almost every patient l've seen today has had RSV," said Dr. Helene Tigchelaar of Children's Hospital. "Right now, we're at the peak of an epidemic of RSV in Detroit."

In adults and older children, RSV causes a cold, but in premature babies and infants with heart and muscle problems, it can be very serious.

Most children get better with Tylenol, fluids, and lots of rest.

Da'Mone is going home tonight, but his mom is still a little worried.

"I just take it day by day, to see how long its going to last," Scott said.

The best way to protect your baby is to keep him or her away from people with colds, and make sure you wash your hands regularly.

Click here for more about RSV.

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