RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) is a common respiratory virus that causes mild, cold-like symptoms in most people. However, it can be serious in infants, young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.

Symptoms of RSV

In most cases, RSV symptoms resemble a common cold and may include:

• Runny nose
• Cough
• Sneezing
• Fever
• Decrease in appetite
• Wheezing or difficulty breathing (in severe cases)
• Irritability and lethargy (in infants)

Symptoms typically appear 4 to 6 days after exposure and can last for 1 to 2 weeks.

Who Is at Risk?

While RSV can affect anyone, those at higher risk for severe illness include:

• Infants under 6 months
• Premature babies
• Children with heart or lung disease
• Adults over 65
• Individuals with weakened immune systems

Complications of RSV

In high-risk individuals, RSV can lead to serious respiratory illnesses such as:

• Bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lungs)
• Pneumonia
• Asthma flare-ups
• Hospitalization, especially in infants and elderly patients

How RSV Spreads

• Through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes
• By touching contaminated surfaces or objects
• Close contact such as kissing or sharing drinks

Prevention Tips

• Wash hands frequently
• Avoid close contact with sick individuals
• Disinfect toys, doorknobs, and surfaces
• Keep babies away from crowded places during RSV season (typically fall through spring)

For high-risk infants, a preventive monoclonal antibody treatment called nirsevimab or palivizumab may be recommended by doctors.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention if your child or an elderly person shows signs of:

• Difficulty breathing
• Wheezing
• High fever
• Dehydration (dry mouth, no tears, less wet diapers)
• Bluish color of lips or skin