Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection (RSV)
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. People can get infected at any age. While most people can recover quickly without medical care, RSV can be serious, especially for infants and older adults, who may need to be hospitalized. RSV infections typically begin increasing in October and peak in December.
Similar to the common cold, RSV spreads when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or breathes out droplets that contain the virus. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby, or on a surface that others may touch. RSV can survive for many hours on hard surfaces, such as tables and crib rails. RSV does not live on soft surfaces such as tissues and hands for shorter amounts of time.
For people with mild symptoms, medical professionals may suggest resting, drinking fluids and using over-the-counter medicines to reduce fever. People at higher risk of serious RSV complications should talk with their healthcare provider about further care.
Symptoms of RSV
People infected with RSV usually show symptoms within four to six days after getting infected, which may include
- Runny nose
- Decrease in appetite
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Fever
- Wheezing
In very young infants with RSV, the only symptoms may be irritability, decreased activity and breathing difficulties.
People can be infected with RSV more than once, and at any age. Event though most people recover in a week or two, infants, children, older adults with heart or lung issues, and people with wakened immune systems are at greater risk of developing severe illness. RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in children less than one year of age.
Prevent the Spread of RSV
The RSV vaccine is available to adults 60 years and older, and a preventive monoclonal antibody medication (nirsevimab) is available for infants. Patients should talk with a healthcare provider to see if these options are right for themselves or their infants.
The CDC recommends that all infants under eight months, and some older babies at increased risk of severe RSV, receive one dose of nirsevimab before or during the RSV season. For a small group of children between the ages of 8-19 months who are at increased risk of severe RSV disease, such as children who are severely immunocompromised, a dose is recommended in their second season. Nirsevimab (also known as Beyfortus) has been shown to reduce the risk of both hospitalizations and health care visits for RSV in infants by approximately 80%.
Other Ways to Prevent RSV
- Clean frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs and mobile devices
- Avoid close contact with sick people
- Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
- Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands