What should you know about enterovirus bronchiolitis?

Bronchiolitis can narrow the small airways and increase mucus. A child may develop a runny nose followed by cough, fast or noisy breathing, wheezing, irritability, and difficulty feeding. Symptoms can change over hours, and babies may show breathing trouble through pauses, tiring during feeds, or fewer wet nappies. [Cough](/symptoms/cough/), [Fever](/symptoms/fever/), and [Wheezing](/symptoms/wheezing/) can also occur with other illnesses.

Offer smaller, more frequent feeds and keep the child upright while awake. Clear visible nasal mucus gently and keep smoke away. Monitor breathing, alertness, feeding, and wet nappies. A clinician may recommend observation and supportive care; a [Nebuliser Treatment](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/nebuliser-treatment/) is not automatically needed. Arrange a [Child Health Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/child-health-consultation/) if symptoms are worsening or feeding is becoming difficult.

Seek urgent help if the child is struggling for each breath, has pauses in breathing, blue or grey lips, severe chest indrawing, unusual sleepiness, or cannot feed. Prompt assessment is also needed for dehydration signs such as markedly fewer wet nappies, a dry mouth, or no tears. Babies with concerning breathing should not be watched at home.

Ask how to count breathing, which feeding changes matter, how often to check the child overnight, and which signs mean emergency assessment is needed.