Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

What is Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)?

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.

What are the symptoms of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)?

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:

Headache
Shortness of breath
Nasal congestion
Severe cough
Fever
Wheezing
Chest pain
A bluish tinge to the skin
Lethargy

How does Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) spread?

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.

What are the complications of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)?

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:

Hospitalisation: Severe RSV infections may result in you being hospitalised so doctors are able to monitor your breathing problems.
Pneumonia: RSV is one of the most common causes of pneumonia or bronchiolitis. This happens when the virus spreads to your lower respiratory tract.
Middle ear infection: If the virus enters the space behind your eardrums, you may get a middle ear infection. This complication is more common in infants and toddlers.
Asthma: Severe RSV has been linked with an increased risk of children developing asthma later in life
Repeated infections: Once you have RSV, you could get infected again throughout your life

How do you prevent Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)?

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.

How is Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) diagnosed?

Blood Test
Blood tests can be done to check white cell counts or to look for viruses, bacteria and other germs

Chest X-Ray
An X-Ray can be done on your chest to check for lung infection.

Did you know?

Myth: Being cold gives you a cold.

Fact: Contrary to popular belief, being cold does not give you a cold. In fact, you’re more likely to get sick indoors, where germs are easily passed from one person to another. The best way to avoid a cold or flu is getting your yearly flu vaccine, frequently washing your hands with soap and warm water, keep your distance from other sick people, and covering your mouth while sneezing or coughing.

Read more about the importance of regular health screening here.