-RSV-

We’re writing regarding a very important matter: RSV. For those of you who
plan to visit us over the next few months, and even if you are not, please take
a few minutes to read this letter.

If you are not aware of RSV, respiratory syncytial virus, you are among the majority. Most people have not heard of RSV, even though nearly every child has had the virus by age two. For full-term babies, RSV typically is not any worse than a
common cold, but for preemies, the virus can be quite different. Babies born earlier than 36 weeks are at the highest risk for serious complications like pneumonia, bronchitis, and other sometimes fatal complications. The boys were born premature, are multiples, and all had low birth weights; these are among the highest risk factors for contracting RSV and developing serious complications. This website offers a great visual comparison of a preemie’s lungs compared to the lungs of a full-term baby: http://www.preemiecare.org/LungsTrees03-4.pdf

Preventing the spread of RSV is very difficult. So, we must be vigilant about keeping the boys safe during RSV season (October through April). The virus is spread through physical contact, in the air via a cough or sneeze, or by touching an infected object. The virus can live as long as six hours on hands and up to twelve hours on objects, and it spreads very easily, especially from child to child. Studies have also shown that infants pose an even higher risk of spreading RSV to others.
You might ask, “Can’t they fight it off and build up their immune system? Kids need to get sick, right?” The simple answer is NO. Since our babies were pre-term, they did not acquire the necessary immunities to fight off infection.
If they contract RSV, they could be hospitalized and develop serious complications.
We ask that all visitors do the following:
1. When you arrive, please wash your hands and use hand-sanitizer as needed before touching the boys.
2. Please refrain from coming over if you are currently sick and have not been symptom-free for at least 5
days, if you live with someone who is sick, or have been in close contact with someone who is sick.
3. If you are parents to a baby or toddler who has been sick, please refrain from bringing them over until they are well.

Last year we contracted RSV, it was a nightmare. It started with Logan then the other two got sick. By the time Logan was better he had contracted it again from Brody and Seth resulting in him getting severely dehydrated and a late night ER trip. It could've been worse a lot worse but it's definitely something we don't want to experience again.
Our goal is to make it through this RSV season without the boys contracting RSV or any other serious illness. Their lungs are still very fragile until they are 2-years-old.
Please understand that this letter is not meant to offend anyone, just simply to provide an explanation. We hope you understand, and while we'll still get out from time to time it will be less for the boys safety.

Love and best wishes to all!