A mum is sharing her harrowing experience after her newborn baby almost died from the human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), advocating for pregnant women to receive the RSV vaccine. Fiona Walker, 41, rushed her baby Ethyan Gammage to the hospital when he turned “grey, cold, and lifeless” and was diagnosed with bronchiolitis caused by RSV. The premature baby had to undergo treatment in the NICU, including being put into an induced coma and on a ventilator, before finally being discharged after a two-week battle.
RSV, common in adults as a mild flu, can be fatal in newborns and the elderly. The RSV vaccine, now available in the UK for those aged 75+ and pregnant women over 28 weeks, aims to protect newborns. Despite living in Scotland, where pregnant women were vaccinated starting August, Ethyan, born prematurely in June, missed the deadline. Fiona urges pregnant women to take the vaccine to prevent others from facing the trauma she went through.
The terrifying ordeal began when Ethyan, born six weeks early, started showing cold and cough symptoms in July. After a sudden decline in breathing, paramedics rushed him to the hospital where he received critical care. Following days of uncertainty, Ethyan gradually recovered and was discharged. Fiona emphasises the importance of the vaccine, highlighting the lasting impact the experience had on her family.
Struggling with post-traumatic stress, Fiona is determined to raise awareness about RSV and the vaccine’s significance. She stresses the necessity of protecting newborns from the virus and hopes her story will encourage pregnant women to get vaccinated. Fiona’s message resonates with the community as she advocates for preventative measures to safeguard vulnerable infants.
The heart-wrenching account sheds light on the importance of vaccination, especially for pregnant women, in preventing life-threatening illnesses in newborns. Fiona’s plea serves as a poignant reminder of the potential dangers posed by RSV and the essential role of vaccination in ensuring the well-being of infants.