When your baby isn’t feeling well, it’s natural to worry — especially when symptoms like coughing, congestion, or a fever show up. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common illness that affects infants and young children, and can cause some distressing symptoms. While most parents are familiar with the typical symptoms of RSV like a runny nose, wheezing, or trouble feeding, many wonder: do babies get a rash with RSV? Find out if a rash is a normal symptom of RSV, and what to do when your baby has a rash along with other symptoms.
Rashes with RSV
The short answer for whether or not RSV causes rashes in babies is: not typically. But, they can happen in some cases. Most of the time, the typical symptoms of RSV include:
- Lack of appetite or trouble feeding
- Sneezing
- Runny nose or congestion
- Coughing
- Fever
Some babies may develop a rash during or immediately following an RSV infection. This rash is most likely a “viral rash” that results from a fever, but can also be caused by irritation from frequent nose-wiping, or a reaction to medications. Diaper rashes can also occur from swallowing mucus, which can irritate your baby’s digestive system. And, it’s possible for your baby to have a rash that occurs alongside RSV, with no correlation to the virus itself.
What To Do When Your Baby Has a Rash
While rashes aren’t generally a cause for concern on their own, it’s always a good idea to have them checked out — especially if they’re accompanied by other symptoms, widespread, or lingering. Rashes can occur for many reasons, so pinpointing the cause can lead to faster treatment and recovery. If your baby experiences rashes regularly, it can be helpful to keep a journal to document any new foods, laundry detergents, or other potential allergens.
If you suspect your baby has RSV, it’s important to have them evaluated. RSV can be serious in babies, but can be diagnosed with a quick nasal swab test. If RSV is confirmed, the typical treatment is supportive care. Occasionally, breathing treatments may prove beneficial as well.
Expert Care at Xpress Wellness Urgent Care
If your baby is showing signs of RSV or you’re concerned about a rash, don’t wait and worry. Our caring team at Xpress Wellness Urgent Care is here to help. With walk-in availability and online check-in, pediatric care has never been more convenient. Our experienced providers will take the time to assess your child’s symptoms and create a treatment plan so they can feel better, faster. Find a location near you to let us help you regain confidence and calm when your baby is feeling under the weather.
