A winter virus that can mimic the symptoms of a common cold is causing concern as it can be particularly serious for some individuals. The Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a highly prevalent virus that can trigger alarming symptoms in infants and young children.

Like other seasonal viruses such as the common cold or flu, RSV spreads through coughs and sneezes from infected individuals. Some babies may receive an injection to help them generate antibodies against RSV, but this only helps to minimise the risk of severe complications.

While the virus generally doesn't pose a threat to healthy adults, it can lead to bronchiolitis - a chest infection that primarily affects babies and children under two years old. Bronchiolitis can result in breathing difficulties in young children, and the NHS urges parents to dial 999 or visit A&E if their child begins to show severe complications from the infection.

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Severe complications can encompass breathing difficulties, pauses in breathing, and skin turning blue. RSV can also trigger a severe lung infection known as pneumonia, which can seriously affect babies and may necessitate hospital treatment.

NHS guidance states: "RSV infections are very common. Almost all children get them at least once before they're 2 years old. They're not usually serious, but some babies and adults have a higher risk of getting seriously ill..."

If your child becomes infected with RSV, they may experience the following symptoms:

• Frequent sneezing


• Coughing or a cough that gets worse


• A runny or blocked nose


• Tiredness


• A high temperature


• Sweating


• Shivering


• Noisy breathing


• Difficulty feeding


• Loss of appetite


• Shortness of breath

Currently, there is no treatment for an RSV infection. Generally, it gets better on its own within one to two weeks, and your child can usually be looked after at home.

Guidance from the NHS advises parents to help ease symptoms of an RSV infection in children with appropriate paracetamol or ibuprofen if they have a high temperature or are uncomfortable. If a child's nose is blocked, you can also use saline drops from a pharmacy and ensure that the child stays hydrated.

Further guidance on treating an RSV infection, and when you should call 111 or 999, can be found here.