Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is very common. Most children have been infected with this virus by age 2, though it can also infect adults. While most cases are mild and mimic the common cold, severe infection is possible in infants, older adults, and individuals with certain health conditions. Keep reading to learn more about RSV, including its symptoms, risk factors, and prevention.
What Is RSV?
RSV is a common respiratory virus that affects the lungs and respiratory tract. It is spread through tiny respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. While RSV typically causes a mild infection with symptoms similar to the common cold, it can be dangerous for infants, older adults, people with weakened immune systems, and those with heart or lung disease. These vulnerable groups are more likely to experience severe infections that require hospitalization.
Symptoms of RSV
For most people, an RSV infection may feel similar to the common cold and lasts a couple of weeks. In adults, symptoms may include:
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Fever
Kids typically experience symptoms similar to those of adults, but they may develop a more severe cough or wheezing. In infants, a serious infection may cause a cough with rapid, short, or shallow breaths or labored breathing. If the infection spreads to the lower respiratory tract in anyone, it can cause bronchiolitis or pneumonia. Symptoms of a severe RSV infection to watch for include:
- Wheezing
- Severe cough
- Fever
- Difficulty breathing
- Bluish skin color due to lack of oxygen
RSV Risk Factors
Most children will have been infected with RSV by age 2, but they can get infected with the virus more than once. Children who attend daycare or have siblings who attend school are at a higher risk of exposure and reinfection. Outbreaks tend to occur during RSV season starting in fall and lasting until the end of spring. Some people are at a higher risk of severe or even life-threatening RSV infections. These include:
- Premature infants and babies 6 months of age and younger
- Children with congenital heart disease or chronic lung disease
- Children with neuromuscular disorders
- Adults with lung disease or heart disease
- Adults 65 years of age and older
- Anyone with a weakened immune system
Preventing RSV
There are two options to help protect infants from severe RSV. One option is the infant can receive an antibody product to prevent severe infection. The other option is an RSV vaccine given to a pregnant woman to help protect her child from birth to 6 months old. Both of these options are approved by the FDA. Older adults, especially those with ongoing health conditions or weakened immune systems, are also at a higher risk of severe infection. There is an FDA-approved RSV vaccine for adults age 60 and older.
In addition to vaccines, there are also lifestyle habits that can help reduce the spread of RSV. Wash your hands often and teach your children the importance of washing their hands. Avoid being around people who are sick, and cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. Sanitize high-touch surfaces such as countertops, doorknobs, etc., and wash toys regularly. Immediately throw away used tissues to prevent the spread of germs. Don’t share drinking glasses or eating utensils with others, especially if you know they are sick.
RSV Vaccines at Phipps Pharmacy
Are you interested in getting the RSV vaccine to protect yourself and your loved ones from this potentially dangerous virus? Here at Phipps Pharmacy, we make it quick and easy to get the vaccines you need. To learn more and to schedule your vaccine appointment, please reach out to us today!
