Treatment for this Lung Infection
Bronchiolitis, a type of respiratory tract infection, is a common condition
in children less than 2 years of age. The condition is commonly
caused by a virus, but may also be caused by bacteria. Respiratory synctial
virus (RSV) is the most common cause of bronchiolitis in young children.
Infection from this virus leads to inflammation of the small airways (called
bronchioles). Symptoms of bronchiolitis include runny nose, fever, cough,
and wheezing. Symptoms generally last about one to one and a half weeks.
Most episodes are mild and resolve on their own.
Inhaled drugs called bron-chodilators are often prescribed in some
children with bronchiolitis. Albuterol (Proventil, Ventolin) and salmeterol
(Serevent) are bronchodilators. Glucocorticoids (prednisone, prednisolone)
may be prescribed, however are not routinely done so for this purpose.
Palivizumab (Synagis) is an RSV-specific humanized monoclonal
antibody that may be used for prevention of RSV in infants at high risk
for complications from RSV infection. Palivizumab is administered by an
injection during the months when RSV is most common, typically during
the winter months. Annual immunization with influenza vaccine is also
recommended for children 6 months to 18 years, and household contacts
of children up to 59 months old.