12/09/2025
What Is Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)?
RSV is a contagious virus that causes cold-like symptoms. While most people recover in a week or two, it can lead to serious complications for older adults and those with certain health conditions. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary.
When is RSV season?
In most of the world, RSV season typically begins in the fall, peaks in the winter & tapers off by late spring, though the timing can vary each year.
What are the symptoms of RSV?
Symptoms of RSV, the common cold, including a runny nose, cough, headache & sore throat. Severe symptoms like rapid breathing or a high fever can occur if the virus affects the lower respiratory tract.
Frequently get RSV, with the risk of complications being lower than for infants or older adults. However, those with chronic health issues like heart or lung disease are at a higher risk for more severe outcomes. Symptoms in adults are similar to a typical cold and usually resolve on their own within one to two weeks.
RSV Transmission
RSV spreads easily through respiratory droplets from coughs & sneezes, entering the body through the eyes, nose or mouth. The virus can survive for hours on hard surfaces like doorknobs and countertops. An infected person is typically contagious for about three to eight days and may be contagious a day or two before symptoms even appear.
*RSV Prevention*
1. Cover your mouth when you cough and sneeze.
2. Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer.
3. Clean objects and surfaces frequently.
4. Improve air circulation by opening windows, using an air purifier or spending time outdoors.
5. Avoid sharing drinking glasses with others.
6. Don't smoke.
*RSV Precautions*
Wear a mask if you are sick with RSV to help lower the chances of spreading the virus.
Stay home from work until you feel better to avoid spreading the virus to others.
*RSV Complications*
While RSV is often mild, it can lead to complications, particularly for older adults and individuals with underlying health conditions. These complications can include:
Pneumonia: An infection causing inflammation in the lungs.
Bronchiolitis: A lung infection that leads to inflammation & mucus in the airways.
Middle ear infection: An infection in the air-filled space behind the eardrum.
Asthma: RSV can trigger asthma flare-ups or worsen existing conditions.
Bronchitis: Inflammation of the airways leading to the lungs, causing a persistent cough.
You can contract RSV multiple times, even within the same season. In some severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary.
Consult your doctor, in case of any health issue.
Best Source - WebMD - htt ps://ww w.webmd.co m/lung/respiratory-syncytial-virus?
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)is on the rise. It is a common, contagious virus that affects your respiratory system and spreads easily leading to cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose and cough. What to know: https://wb.md/3HUsg6l