You make me sick

Everett and I have had congestion and runny noses since Monday. It didnt prompt a visit to see the doctor since Deona and I assumed it was due to the drastic changes of weather we've had recently and also because our pediatrian recommends not going in to see her unless Ev has a high fever (101.0).
Well, on Friday we found out our nephew Matthew has a mild case of RSV (Respiratory syncytial virus). RSV is the most common germ that causes lung and airway infections in infants and young children. It is also known that RSV is HIGHLY contagious and most often children are hospitalized when they get it.
Initially Deona and I were quite concerned of this news, because we had just spent Wednesday evening with Matt, Jordan and Dondi. Even moreso, because during their time of play, Everett snatched Matthew's pacifier and chomped on it a couple of times. Luckily for Matt, Deona remembered to wash and sanitize the pacifier before returning it to him.
I also felt some concern because I sat between the dualing coughers (Matt & Everett) at dinner. :o/
This news prompted a conversation for Deona and I. We came to the conclusion, even in our best attempts to keep Everett from germs (i.e. keeping him out of daycare and away from those whom are ill), there are still endless possibilities where we pick up germs.(i.e.: the neighborhood playground, restraunts, shopping centers, shopping carts, our loved ones, etc).
So with that said, we won't know if Everett has RSV; until then we'll keep our fingers crossed his symptoms don't worsen and pray we have two healthy boys very, very soon.

A little more about RSV:
Overview
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a very common virus that leads to mild, cold-like symptoms in adults and older healthy children. It can be more serious in young babies, especially to those in certain high-risk groups.

Symptoms
Bluish skin color due to a lack of oxygen (cyanosis)
Breathing difficulty or labored breathing
Cough
Croupy cough (often described as a "seal bark" cough)
Fever
Nasal flaring
Rapid breathing (tachypnea)
Shortness of breath
Stuffy nose
Wheezing
Note: Symptoms vary and differ with age. Infants under age 1 are most severely affected and often have the most trouble breathing. Older children usually have only mild, cold-like symptoms. Symptoms usually appear 4 - 6 days after coming in contact with the virus.

Treatment
Antibiotics do not treat RSV. Mild infections go away without treatment. Infants and children with a severe RSV infection may be admitted to the hospital so they can receive oxygen, humidified air, and fluids by IV. A breathing machine (ventilator) may be needed.

Causes
RSV is the most common germ that causes lung and airway infections in infants and young children. Most infants have had this infection by age 2. Outbreaks of RSV infections typically begin in the fall and run into the spring.

RSV is spread easily by physical contact. Touching, kissing, and shaking hands with an infected person can spread RSV. The disease spreads from person to person through contact with contaminated tiny droplets or objects that the droplets have touched.

RSV can live for a half an hour or more on hands. The virus can also live for up to 5 hours on countertops and for several hours on used tissues. RSV often spreads very rapidly in crowded households and day care centers.

The infection can occur in people of all ages.

Risks include:
Attending daycare
Being exposed to tobacco smoke
Having school-aged siblings
Living in crowded conditions

When to contact a doctor
Call your health care provider if breathing difficulties or other symptoms of this disorder appear. Any breathing difficulties in an infant are an emergency. Seek medical attention right away.