Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Resource Center
Health ConditionsInfectious DiseasesRespiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common virus that affects the throat, nose, and lungs. Symptoms include a runny nose, congestion, sneezing, wheezing, cough, and fever, and these are often mild but occasionally severe in infants, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions. Treatment typically involves managing symptoms, but a person with severe RSV may need to stay in a hospital.

Lifestyle factors like hand-washing, cleaning surfaces, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and vaccination can help prevent the spread of RSV.

Common Questions & Answers

Who is at high risk for severe RSV?
At-risk populations — for severe RSV and complications like bronchiolitis and pneumonia — include infants who are born early, people with compromised immune systems, older adults, and those with chronic heart or lung disease.
RSV spreads through droplets from coughs, sneezes, kissing, and contact with contaminated surfaces. It enters through the nose, eyes, or mouth and remains highly contagious for three to eight days in most people, but longer in at-risk populations.
In most people, RSV leads to a runny nose, congestion, mild headache, cough, fatigue, and fever. These symptoms usually last three to seven days, but the cough may last longer. Breathing difficulties and dehydration show severe RSV in infants.
Mresvia, Arexvy, and Abrysvo are the RSV vaccines available for older adults, and pregnant people can also receive Abrysvo to help protect infants from before birth. Some children may receive a monoclonal antibody against RSV called Nirsevimab-alip, and may need two doses.
RSV often resolves in a week or two without active treatment, using only supportive care to ease symptoms. However, people with compromised immune systems may receive ribavirin, an antiviral medication, or intravenous immunoglobulin. Those with severe RSV may require hospitalization.
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Resources
  1. About RSV. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. August 30, 2024.
  2. RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus). Cleveland Clinic. November 15, 2023.

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