Rising RSV Cases in Metro Atlanta: Cecila’s Close Call
ATLANTA — As the temperature begins to drop, residents in metro Atlanta are becoming increasingly concerned about the rise in Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) cases. For one Loganville family, the situation has been especially harrowing as they almost lost their newborn daughter to the virus. Their story serves as a reminder for everyone to stay vigilant.
At just 3 weeks old, baby Cecilia found herself as one of the youngest patients fighting against RSV in the hospital. Her parents, overwhelmed but resolute, are now issuing a heartfelt warning to other families to be aware of the symptoms and risks of RSV.
A Frightening Experience for New Parents
“I can’t even express what it was like,” said Cecilia’s mom, Allissa Briggs, referring to the heartbreaking ordeal. Hospital videos reveal Cecilia struggling to breathe, depicting a difficult two weeks for the family. “It was scary. Like, we got transferred to ICU at four in the morning, and I walked outside bawling my eyes out, like, ‘Is my baby coming home with us?'” Briggs recounted.
Cecilia fell ill quite unexpectedly. “It started when she was feeding. She began choking, turning purple, and not breathing. It was traumatizing, and something I’d never seen before with a baby,” her mother said.
Acting quickly, Briggs and her husband rushed Cecilia from Loganville to the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, where doctors diagnosed her with Bronchiolitis at first. However, they soon discovered it was RSV, and her parents knew they were in for a tough battle to restore her health.
Understanding RSV and Its Impact
Dr. Danny Bransetter, the chief medical officer at a local hospital, explains that while RSV is common, young children, especially those under two, are more susceptible to severe symptoms. “RSV is a respiratory virus that is indistinguishable from symptoms of the common cold. Most of us are infected with RSV by the time we’re two years old, and we can have it multiple times in our life,” he noted.
The virus can be transmitted through simple actions like kissing a child or interaction between siblings, which might have been the case for baby Cecilia. Despite the ordeal, her mother maintains hope, “She’s a strong fighter! Honestly, I’m glad that she’s pushed through. I knew she would,” said Briggs.
Warning to Other Families
As Cecilia’s family returns home, they continue to stay cautious. They’ll wear masks around her to keep her safe and are raising funds to cover medical expenses. Doctors stress that although the RSV numbers are increasing, they’re not yet alarming. However, emphasis on prevention is growing as we approach the peak season for RSV.
For pregnant mothers, healthcare professionals recommend vaccinations to safeguard their babies.
In these times, it’s important to stay informed, look out for symptoms, and take preventive measures seriously to protect loved ones during RSV season.
