you are very very wise to ask this question. while most babies survive rsv just fine no one wants to put their infant through the horrible symptoms! rsv which stands for respiratory syncytial virus is pretty much like a really bad cold. like the common cold there are many many mutations of this virus which means it's impossible to ever be completely immune to it. most children will experience a case or two of rsv. rsv is highly contagious. it spreads in the same ways the common cold does: through direct contact with body fluids like mucus from touching contaminated surfaces and so on. so yes you can "carry" this virus from the infected baby (poor thing! ) to your own healthy child. but keep in mind you can catch the virus too. you will want to take precautions to avoid coming down sick yourself. when you visit the ill child try these tactics to reduce the chance of taking rsv home to your own little one: before holding or snuggling with the infected baby cover yourself with a blanket or other barrier that can be left behind or disposed of wear a face mask if the baby is sneezing a lot avoid touching surfaces in the baby's environment as much as possible do not touch your eyes or nose while visiting the ill baby or handling him wash your hands and arms thoroughly after your visit wash any other exposed skin areas touched by the baby (such as your neck which is the most wonderful place to snuggle up with an infant) you can use antimicrobial rub instead of washing but i'm a fan of good thorough handwashing with warm water and soap i'm very sorry to hear the preemie has been struck with this wretched virus. i'm glad to hear he seems to be overcoming it. you're a wonderful aunt to go visit him and i'm sure his mom can use some moral support right now too. wishing you well!
is it safe to visit with a rsv infected baby and then with my healthy baby nephew soon after? can i carry this virus? . the two babies are both 6 months old. the sick boy is a preemie. with some breathing issues the other boy was born normal wt. and has been in good health.