Baby Your Baby: Respiratory viruses

(KUTV) 'Tis the season of respiratory viruses, and for little ones, these illnesses can become very serious. Dr. Rebecca Purtell, pediatric hospitalist at Intermountain's Riverton Hospital says the two major respiratory illnesses this time of year are croup and bronchiolitis.

While both illnesses affect the lungs, there are subtle differences to help parents know which one their child is suffering from. Croup is located in the upper airway and mostly affects kids under the age of five. Bronchiolitis deals with the lower lungs and is usually seen in children under the age of two.

"With most pediatric illnesses, the younger you are the more risk you have of getting a little bit sicker because your lungs and air tubes are smaller," warns Dr. Purtell.

Getting sick is no fun which is why it's up to the entire family to ensure everyone is practicing good hygiene. That means good old hand washing and using hand sanitizer. It's also important to get your annual flu vaccine. Infants aren't able to receive one, which is why it's up to the rest of the family to protect the youngest.

"All of these viruses adults can have, children can have, infants can have," reminds Dr. Purtell, "It's just the younger ones that have the problem."

When a child has a respiratory virus it's important to know when to seek medical attention. If your child has trouble breathing or is he/she isn't drinking well, they should definitely see a doctor.