Respiratory Syncytial Virus
Overview
Causes
RSV is spread 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. It can also be spread by inhaling droplets from a sneeze or cough.
Risk Factors
RSV can infect people of all ages. It is more common in infants and young children. Other things that may raise the risk are:
- Exposure to a person infected with the virus or a surface with the virus
- Premature birth
- 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
SymptomsandDiagnosis
Symptoms
The symptoms can vary with age, health, and whether a person has had RSV before.
In children younger than 3 years old, problems may be:
- Fever
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Severe cough
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Fast breathing
- Bluish color of the lips or fingernails
- Being very drowsy or irritable
- Lack of hunger
- Discharge from the eyes
In children older than 3 years old and healthy adults, problems may be:
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Sore throat
- Mild cough
- Headache
- Fever
- Discharge from the eyes
Treatments
Treatment
Antibiotics are not helpful because RSV is caused by a virus. Most infections will pass on their own. Treatment options include:
- Supportive care, such as fluids, humidified air, and saline nasal drops
- Medicine to ease pain or help with breathing
- Oxygen therapy or breathing support
This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
Edits to original content made by Denver Health.
Copyright © EBSCO Information Services
All rights reserved.