What to Do If You’re Having a Baby During “Sick Season”
Bringing your baby home is such a special time, but if you’re doing it in the middle of sick season, it can also feel a little nerve-wracking. Everywhere you turn, it seems like someone’s sniffling or coughing, and all you want is to keep your little one healthy and cozy.
Take a deep breath…you’ve got this. With a few simple habits (and some gentle boundaries), you can help protect your baby and keep your home feeling peaceful and germ-free.
Wash Hands Often (and Well!)
It’s simple, but powerful. Good handwashing goes a long way. Make it a habit for everyone who walks through your door. Before touching the baby, hands should be washed with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds.
As an extra layer of protection, keep hand sanitizer stations around the house - by the front door, changing table, and couch - so it’s easy for everyone to clean their hands before snuggling your little one.
Wipe EVERYTHING Down
Germs love to hang out on doorknobs, phones, and countertops, so a quick daily wipe-down can make a big difference. Keep disinfecting wipes nearby so you can easily tackle the spots you touch most throughout the day.
Breastfeeding = Built-in Antibodies
If you’re breastfeeding, your milk is doing amazing things behind the scenes. When you’re exposed to germs (or even catch something yourself), your body produces antibodies that pass through your milk and help protect your baby.
So even if you’re the one under the weather, it’s usually best to keep nursing if you can. Your milk is like medicine for your little one.
Know the Signs of RSV
RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) is one of those bugs that makes the rounds every winter, and it can hit babies harder than older kids or adults. Keep an eye out for:
Coughing or congestion
Fever
Fast or labored breathing
Chest retractions (when the skin pulls in around the ribs or chest with each breath)
Unusual fussiness or irritability
Eating less or fewer wet diapers
Seeming extra sleepy or hard to wake
If something feels off, don’t wait - call your pediatrician. Trust your gut! You know your baby better than anyone.
Set Visitor Rules (and Stick to Them!)
This part can feel awkward, but it’s so important. Setting clear expectations with friends and family helps keep everyone healthy, and keeps you from stressing. Here’s what we recommend:
No kissing baby (especially face or hands)
Wash hands when you arrive
Text before coming over
Stay home if you’re feeling even a little sick OR if you’ve been exposed to someone else who is sick
You’re not being overprotective. You’re being smart and loving. Your baby’s health (and your peace of mind) come first.
Having a baby during sick season can feel a little tricky, but you’re doing an amazing job. A few extra precautions, lots of handwashing, and clear boundaries go a long way.
And remember - you don’t have to do this alone. The Choose Joy Nursing team is always here to support you and your baby, helping you both stay comfortable, rested, and healthy all season long!
