Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a contagious respiratory virus that not only affects infants, but also adults throughout their lives. RSV can be easily spread through the air, by direct contact or by contact with contaminated surfaces.
The immune system typically weakens with age, and older adults are at a greater risk of RSV infection compared to younger adults. Infants under 6 months of age and premature infants are also at a greater risk of RSV. Although usually mild, RSV can cause serious lower respiratory complications.
In healthy adults and children, RSV symptoms are similar to those of the common cold. Symptoms of RSV can range from mild to serious and may last up to 14 days. Symptoms may include:
RSV spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes around you, by direct contact with someone who has RSV, or by touching contaminated surfaces such as doorknobs. Anyone can get RSV although most people first get RSV while as an infant or toddler. Repeated infections may happen throughout your lifetime.
Certain medical conditions may also put older adults at risk of serious complications than those without these conditions. These include asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and congestive heart disease.
Some complications you may experience include:
It is not possible to prevent RSV, but you can lower your chances of developing severe symptoms by vaccinating yourself. The RSV vaccination is recommended for pregnant women to protect their newborn infant, elderly aged 75 and older, and young infants.
Blood Test
Blood tests can be done to check white cell counts or to look for viruses, bacteria and other germs
Although it is commonly mistaken for the common cold, respiratory syncitial virus (RSV) may lead to severe complications such as bronchitis, pneumonia or the worsening of asthma symptoms if left untreated.
Learn more about the different advancements made in vaccinations against respiratory illnesses here.
