Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a respiratory virus that causes acute respiratory infection in all ages. Severe cases of RSV can result in bronchitis (infection of the upper airway), bronchiolitis (infection of the smaller airways in the lower lungs, more common in young children) or pneumonia. Understanding the symptoms and knowing when to seek treatment is key to protecting yourself and others.
What are RSV Symptoms?
RSV symptoms are similar to those of influenza (the flu) and COVID-19. They are more common in small children and older adults. Symptoms can include:
- Runny nose
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Fever
- Difficulty breathing
- Dehydration
When to Seek Help
Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Dehydration with less urine output
- A bluish tinge around the lips or fingertips
RSV in Children and Older Adults
Children and older adults, as well as people in immunocompromised conditions, are particularly vulnerable to RSV and its associated complications. Heightened awareness of symptoms can help you detect RSV earlier among people in these age groups. The earlier the diagnosis, the better the results.
RSV Treatments
Safe and effective treatments are available to manage the duration and severity of symptoms for respiratory syncytial virus.
- Hydration
- Rest
- Bronchodilators
- Humidifier use
Is RSV Contagious?
Yes, RSV is a contagious respiratory illness. It can be spread by sneezing or coughing, or by touching something contaminated and then touching the mouth or eyes. The virus can live for several hours on hard surfaces.
RSV Prevention
Below are some prevention strategies that can reduce the risk of getting RSV, while also minimizing the spread to others.
- Wash your hands. Frequent and thorough handwashing, especially after sneezing or coughing, can lower your risk. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), handwashing alone can reduce respiratory illnesses by about 20 percent in the general population.
- Get vaccinated. RSV vaccines are now available for older adults and those who are pregnant to protect newborns. Preventative monoclonal antibodies are available for at-risk infants. Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent respiratory illnesses and mitigate symptoms.
- Cover your cough. Always sneeze or cough into a tissue or your elbow. Immediately dispose of tissues and remember to wash your hands.
- Avoid close contact. When you’re sick or at risk, practicing physical distancing is a wise move, especially in crowded spaces.
- Wear a mask. Especially during the peak of flu season, wearing a mask indoors or in a crowd can minimize the spread of infectious droplets in the air.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can keep your immune system and respiratory system in optimal condition:
- Sleep well
- Eat a balanced diet
- Avoid smoking and pollutants
We all have an obligation to protect high-risk groups around us, such as the elderly and those who are immunocompromised or live with chronic illnesses.
By following these simple yet effective steps, we can reduce the spread of respiratory syncytial virus and protect ourselves, our families and our communities.
Talk to a Doctor
RSV symptoms are common to other illnesses like the flu and COVID-19. If what seems like the common cold is causing you to have a hard time breathing, making you feel dehydrated, or if you notice a bluish tinge around the lips or fingernails, contact your RWJBarnabas Health doctor right away.