The viruses that cause bronchiolitis are very common and easily spread, so it's impossible to prevent the condition entirely. However, you can take steps to reduce the chance of your child catching a virus.
If your child already has bronchiolitis, following these steps will help to prevent spreading the virus further:
- Cover your child's nose and mouth when they cough or sneeze.
- Use disposable tissues rather than cotton handkerchiefs and throw them away as soon as they have been used.
- Wash both your child's hands and your hands frequently, particularly after touching their nose or mouth or after feeding.
- Ask anyone who comes into contact with your child, such as a relative or nanny, to wash their hands first.
- Wash and dry eating utensils after use.
- Wash or wipe toys and surfaces regularly.
- Keep infected children at home until their symptoms have improved (they are feeding normally and do not have any difficulty breathing).
- Keep newborn babies away from people with colds or flu, particularly during the first two months of life or if they were born prematurely (before week 37 of pregnancy).
Smoking
It is important to prevent your child from being exposed to tobacco smoke.
Children who inhale smoke passively are more at risk of developing severe bronchiolitis.
Read up on how to quit smoking.
High-risk children
In some cases, it may be possible for a child with a high risk of developing severe bronchiolitis to have monthly antibody injections. The injections may help limit the severity of the condition if the child becomes infected.
Children considered to be at high risk include those who:
- were born very prematurely
- were born with a heart or lung condition
- have an immune deficiency (a weakened immune system)
Your GP can give you more information and advice if your child is at high risk.
