TW: This blog contains imagery that may be distressing for others.
What Is RSV?
RSV is highly contagious and while it causes mild, cold-like symptoms in most cases, it can be serious and even life-threatening to babies, older people and those with a weakened immune system.
The Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccine, which is being rolled out in September 2024 across the capital, could prevent an estimated amount of around 900 babies being admitted to hospitals in London every year.
Read more on the NHS’ recent article for more details or head to the NHS website to find out more about the new RSV vaccine
We’re joined by Yusra who is here to share the story of how RSV affected her and her son’s life.
Yusra’s Story
Hi, I’m Yusra, a mother and a student midwife. I want to share a personal story that has deeply impacted my life as a mother and how it relates to something very important. RSV and the new vaccine being offered in pregnancy.
Six years ago, my son, just 3 months old, suddenly developed a high fever. His breathing became fast and laboured, and I noticed his chest caving in and out. It was something no mother ever wants to see. I wasn’t in healthcare back then, but as a mother, I could tell this wasn’t just a normal cold.
I quickly called 111, describing his symptoms, and was told to call 999 immediately. Everything after that happened so fast, it’s kind of a blur. By the time we reached the hospital, his oxygen levels were dangerously low and he wouldn’t stop crying. He was admitted immediately and they put him on oxygen and a feeding tube. It was the scariest moment of my life.
“It Felt Like He Was Rejecting Me”
As a mother, seeing your child so weak and vulnerable is beyond heartbreaking. I was breastfeeding at the time, and I remember not being able to feed him because he was too unwell. Whenever I tried to hold him, he would cry—it felt like he was rejecting me, and that was devastating. I just wanted to comfort him, but instead, I felt helpless.
Thankfully, those moments now seem like a distant memory. While his bronchiolitis has progressed into childhood asthma, my son is thriving today. He’s strong, generally healthy, and plays football 5 times a week. He even competes in matches every weekend. I’m so incredibly grateful for how far he’s come, but the memory of that terrifying experience never really leaves you.
Finding Out About The New RSV Vaccine
While my experience with my son’s bronchiolitis didn’t directly influence my decision to become a midwife, hearing about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant women really touched a nerve for me.
I couldn’t help but think: if this vaccine had been available six years ago, I could have taken it during pregnancy to potentially protect my child from RSV and developing bronchiolitis.
As a mother of three, my daughter (who’s 10) and my sons (who are 6 and 5), I’ve learned how vital it is to protect our children in any way we can. Whether it’s through awareness, early interventions, or vaccinations, we have the power to make a difference in their health and future.
Thank you for listening to my story. I hope it helps other parents recognize the signs of serious respiratory conditions like bronchiolitis. And to all the expectant mothers out there, I encourage you to talk to your healthcare provider and midwives about the RSV vaccine – it could be the extra layer of protection your baby needs.
Take care, and stay healthy.
Get Your Vaccinations
It’s strongly recommended that if you are pregnant you have all maternal vaccinations that are offered to you, including Whooping Cough, COVID-19 and flu. These are safe and effective whatever stage of pregnancy you are at, and are free if you are pregnant. These vaccinations will help protect both and your baby from complications and give your baby the protection they need after they are born. Find out more here.
Disclaimer: The NHS have paid a fee towards this post and helped us to advise on the best ways to protect pregnant women and their babies from getting very unwell this winter. This fee will go towards helping more parents find classes and support near them.
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If you found this post useful, you may also like:
How to Prepare for Your Toddler’s Jab (with as Few Tears as Possible!)
Is Measles Just a Rash? The Importance of the Measles Vaccination for Your Child
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