Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is an RNA-based virus that often leads to infections in both the upper and lower parts of the respiratory tract. Each year, RSV causes around 58,000 hospitalizations and can result in up to 500 deaths among children under five. For adults aged 65 and older, the virus is responsible for about 177,000 hospitalizations and 14,000 deaths.
RSV tends to cause mild, cold-like symptoms that develop within four to six days after infection. These symptoms don’t show up all at once and can include irritability, decreased activity, reduced appetite, and sometimes pauses in breathing (apnea) in younger children. While most people recover in a week or two, specific groups, like infants, young children, and older adults, are at risk for more severe illnesses. Premature babies and very young infants are especially vulnerable to serious RSV infections. RSV is also the leading cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in children under one year old in the U.S.
Older adults, particularly those over 65 with chronic heart or lung conditions or weakened immune systems, are also at high risk for severe RSV complications. For these individuals, RSV can exacerbate asthma, COPD, or congestive heart failure, and may also lead to lung infections or pneumonia.
RSV spreads in several ways, and how long it survives on surfaces can depend on the type of surface—lasting longer on hard surfaces than soft ones. People infected with RSV are usually contagious for three to eight days, but infants or those with compromised immune systems might spread the virus for up to four weeks.
Currently, there are no widely available vaccines or antiviral treatments for RSV. Treatment mainly focuses on relieving symptoms, like managing fever and staying hydrated.
To prevent RSV from spreading, it’s important to wash your hands frequently and avoid close contact with those who are infected. If you or someone you know shows symptoms, consult a healthcare provider. It’s crucial to get medical help for breathing issues, dehydration, or if symptoms worsen. Infants under six months and older adults experiencing severe symptoms may require hospitalization.
Typically, it takes one to two weeks to recover from an RSV infection. However, because it can be serious, especially for infants and older individuals, medical attention is essential if you suspect RSV.
