GREENWOOD — It started with what the Haughn family thought was a cold. Fast forward two days later, and doctors at an urgent care center diagnosed Leilani with RSV and pneumonia.
“It’s been worse than anything that we’ve dealt with,” Sasha Haughn, Leilani’s mom, said.
Central Indiana doctors are warning respiratory season for kids is here and taking hold. Haughn echoes that statement.
“I never thought that we would be dealing with RSV in mid-September on an 80-degree day,” Haughn said. She continued, “It’s been a ride but I think we’re past the scary part.”
The mom of three said her daughter is doing better following several rounds of steroids and antibiotic. Still, she took to Facebook to share her story as a warning to other parents — the respiratory season is here, and it is wreaking havoc.
“I think that’s why we waited to take her because it’s not wintertime. It’s not your typical flu season,” Haughn said.
From RSV to rhinovirus to enterovirus and everything in between — Riley Hospital for Children’s Dr. John Christenson shares current bed availability is tight.
“There’s a lot of resilient people and they persevere and provide good care, but the reality is, definitely there’s a lot on the system,” Dr. Christenson said.
The infectious diseases doctor urges parents to answer these questions to determine if a child needs more medical attention.
- Is there breathing difficulty?
- Can a fever be controlled by medicine?
- Are they refusing to eat?
“Right now, we’re double last week of our isolation of rhinovirus and enterovirus,” Dr. Christenson said.
Dr. Christenson predicts RSV will peak in about a month, which is earlier than normal. As for influenza, he believes that will take hold early in the new year.
His best advice to parents -- keep kids home if they are sick.
“Imagine now covid along with RSV, influenza and all these other viruses circulating at the same time, it’s going to put quite a strain on healthcare systems,” Dr. Christenson said.
-
Project DeterMAN aims to create a supportive community for men in Indianapolis
Project DeterMAN aims to create a safe space where men can gather, share experiences, and assist one another in overcoming life's challenges.
Westfield offers prize for supporting local businesses during SR 32 construction
The City of Westfield launched the “Brave the Barricades” initiative to support local businesses affected by SR 32 construction.
CAFE on far east side serves hundreds during pantry giveaway
A local neighborhood center is making sure east side residents have access to fresh produce, clothing and resources they need to survive.
Hundreds rally at the Statehouse against SB1 affecting education and libraries
Opponents of the bill worry it will reduce funding and force public schools to share property tax revenue with charter schools, leading to financial strain on public education and library services.
