The entire month of November is dedicated to National Prematurity Awareness Month something very near and dear to my heart for many reasons.
One reason being that my youngest sister was born premature. Thankfully she was a 34 weeker which isn’t as scary as you would think, yes it’s early but once babies hit 32 weeks their chances of survival outside of the womb with proper medical care sky rocket to close to 95%. 34 weeks? The same likelihood to survive as a full term baby.
And of course my little girl, Elena was born far too premature for her survival. It was so important to me to get to 24 weeks this pregnancy and of course do do everything in my power to prevent a premature birth passed this point.
Despite the amazing survival rates of premature babies there are still so many risks one of the most important having to do with their lungs. It is important for ALL parents to be extra careful with their new babies during this time of the year but especially parents who had premature babies because their lungs aren’t as mature as a baby who was born full term even if they are the same age according to their birthdays. One of the main concerns around this time of year is RSV.
Just because your child isn’t at risk doesn’t mean they can’t get RSV. It is HIGHLY contagious. Case in Point. Mason was born January 30th 2010 (RSV season) . He was 41 weeks +1 day, his little lungs were fully matured yet within a couple of days he contracted RSV (we’re still not sure from who). Luckily he battled back fairly quickly and never needed a hospital stay but we were very close to that happening.
Baby3 will be born during RSV season too although at the end. So I want to do everything I can to make sure that Baby3 doesn’t get it!
You want to be especially on alert if your child is premature. But it’s good to know the symptoms no matter when your baby is born. Here are the most common.
Preemie Awareness Day was November 17th, in fact the entire month of November is dedicated to Prematurity Awareness help do your part by following the preventative steps if you are visiting a premature baby or newborn. You can also share this infographic on your twitter or Facebook to help spread the word!
You can learn more at RSVProtection.com.
Nicōle Olea says
The advancements we've made are astronomical but awareness is so important.
Jess says
Great post! RSV should be taken more serious!