Definition

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of many lung and airway infections. Examples of infections include:

• Common cold
• Bronchitis
• Bronchiolitis
• Pneumonia
• Croup

RSV can infect people of all ages. Infants, young children, and older people tend to have more serious infections. In severe cases, RSV infections can lead to death.

Respiratory System Anatomy of an Infant Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Causes

RSV is spreads easily through fluids of the mouth and nose. The virus can live on surfaces and objects for hours. People touch the surface with the virus then touch their mouth, nose, or eyes. This is the easiest way for the virus to spread. It can also be spread by inhaling droplets from a sneeze or cough. Someone with the virus may be able to pass it on for 3-8 days.

Risk Factors

RSV is more common in infants and young children. Those under 2 years old have highest risk. Other factors that may increase your chance of RSV include:

• Exposure to a person infected with the virus or an object contaminated with the virus
• Premature birth of an infant
• Problems with the heart, lungs, or immune system
• Current or recent use of chemotherapy
• Previous organ or bone marrow transplant
• Problems associated with muscle weakness

Symptoms

The symptoms can vary with age. You may also react different if you have been infected with RSV before. Very young children, elderly people, and people with chronic diseases are more likely to have severe symptoms.

In children younger than 3 years old, symptoms may include:

• Stuffy or runny nose
• High fever
• Severe cough
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Very fast rate of breathing
• Bluish color of the lips or fingernails
• Abnormal drowsiness or irritability
• Lack of appetite
• Discharge from the eyes

In children older than 3 years old, and healthy adults, symptoms commonly include:

• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sore throat
• Mild cough
• Headache
• Low-grade fever
• Discharge from the eyes

Diagnosis

You will be asked about any symptoms and past health. A physical exam will be done. The doctor will suspect a virus based on your symptoms.

There are tests to diagnose RSV. However, they are not usually needed. The result will not affect treatment plan.

Treatment

Antibiotics are not helpful because RSV is caused by a virus.

Prevention

To help reduce your chance of RSV:

• Practice healthy habits, such as:
  • Wash your hands often. This is very important after being with someone who is sick.
  • Avoid touching your face and rubbing your eyes.
  • Do not share items such as cups, glasses, silverware, or towels with people who may have an infection.
  • Avoid smoke exposure.
• Medicine may be given to babies with a high risk of serious illness from RSV. It may help to prevent an infection. The shot is given monthly through the fall and winter in children under 2 years old.