Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. But in some cases, especially for babies and older adults, it can lead to serious illness. 

RSV is one of the most common causes of lung infections in young children and can spread quickly during fall and winter. 

Knowing the symptoms and when to seek care can help protect you and your family. 

What is RSV? 

RSV is a viral infection that affects the lungs and breathing passages (respiratory tract). 

When the virus enters your body, it causes swelling and inflammation in the airways. This can make it harder to breathe and move air in and out of the lungs. 

RSV is the leading cause of: 

• Bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways) in infants 
• Pneumonia (lung infection) in children under age 1 

What are the symptoms of RSV? 

RSV symptoms usually appear 4 to 6 days after exposure and can last 1 to 2 weeks. 

Common RSV symptoms include: 

• Runny nose 
• Cough (may sound tight or “barking”) 
• Sneezing 
• Fever 
• Sore throat 
• Decreased appetite 
• Fatigue or low energy 

In infants, symptoms may include: 

• Irritability 
• Trouble feeding or refusing to eat 
• Pauses in breathing (apnea) 

When should you seek medical care for RSV? 

Most cases are mild, but RSV can become serious quickly, especially in infants and older adults. 

Go to urgent care or the emergency room if you notice: 

Breathing problems: 

• Wheezing or whistling sounds 
• Fast or shallow breathing 
• Flaring nostrils 
• Chest pulling in with breaths 
• Blue or gray lips, skin or fingernails 

Signs of dehydration: 

• Dry mouth 
• No tears when crying 
• Fewer wet diapers (less than one every 8 hours) 

Fever concerns: 

• Any fever (100.4°F or higher) in babies under 3 months 
• Fever of 103°F or higher in older children or adults 
• Fever that doesn’t improve 

Other warning signs: 

• Extreme fatigue or difficulty waking 
• Symptoms that worsen or don’t improve after a few days 

If breathing is difficult or symptoms are severe, seek emergency care right away. 

Who is at higher risk for severe RSV? 

Anyone can get RSV, but certain groups are more likely to develop serious illness: 

• Infants under 12 months 
• Premature babies 
• Children with heart or lung conditions 
• Older adults (especially age 60+) 
• People with chronic conditions like COPD, heart disease or diabetes 
• People with weakened immune systems 

How does RSV spread? 

RSV is very contagious and spreads easily through: 

• Respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing 
• Direct contact like hugging or shaking hands 
• Contaminated surfaces such as toys, doorknobs and countertops 

You are usually contagious for 3 to 8 days, but some people can spread the virus longer. 

RSV season typically peaks in the fall and winter, though it can occur year-round. 

How long does RSV last? 

Most RSV infections improve within 1 to 2 weeks. 

However: 

• Coughing and wheezing may last longer 
• Babies and older adults may take longer to recover 

How is RSV diagnosed? 

A health care provider can often diagnose RSV based on symptoms and a physical exam. 

In some cases, tests may include: 

• Nasal swab to confirm RSV 
• Pulse oximetry to check oxygen levels 
• Chest X-ray to look for lung involvement 

How is RSV treated? 

There is no specific cure for RSV. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and supporting breathing. 

At-home care includes: 

• Rest and fluids to prevent dehydration 
• Fever reducers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen (as directed) 
• Cool mist humidifier to ease breathing 
• Saline drops and gentle suction for infants 

Severe cases may require hospital care, including: 

• Oxygen therapy 
• IV fluids 
• Ventilator support in rare cases 

What are possible complications of RSV? 

While many people recover fully, RSV can lead to complications such as: 

• Bronchiolitis 
• Pneumonia 
• Ear infections 
• Worsening of asthma or chronic lung disease 

Severe RSV in early childhood may also be linked to a higher risk of asthma later in life. 

How can you prevent RSV? 

You can lower your risk of RSV by: 

• Washing hands often with soap and water 
• Covering coughs and sneezes 
• Cleaning frequently touched surfaces 
• Avoiding close contact with sick individuals 
• Not sharing cups, utensils or personal items 
• Staying home when sick 
• Avoiding smoke exposure 

RSV vaccines and antibody protection 

Prevention options are now available for people at higher risk. 

Adults: 

• Vaccines include Arexvy, Abrysvo and mRESVIA 
• Recommended for adults age 75+ and adults 50+ at higher risk 

During pregnancy:

• Abrysvo may be given between 32 and 36 weeks 
• Helps protect newborns after birth 

Infants and young children: 

• Long-acting antibodies such as nirsevimab (Beyfortus) 
• Recommended for babies under 8 months and some high-risk toddlers 

Talk to your health care provider about what protection is right for you or your child. 

Care you can trust 

At Banner Health, our teams provide expert care for RSV, from prevention to diagnosis and treatment. 

If you or your child has symptoms of RSV or trouble breathing, don’t wait. Find care at a Banner Health location near you or schedule an appointment. 

Frequently asked questions about RSV 

Is RSV the same as a cold? 

RSV can look like a cold, but it can be more severe, especially in infants and older adults. 

Can adults get RSV? 

Yes. RSV affects people of all ages, though symptoms are often milder in healthy adults. 

How contagious is RSV? 

RSV spreads easily through close contact and respiratory droplets, especially in shared spaces like schools and childcare centers. 

When is RSV most common? 

RSV season usually occurs in fall and winter. 

Bottom line 

RSV is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild symptoms but can become serious in babies, older adults and people with underlying health conditions. Recognizing symptoms early and knowing when to seek care can help prevent complications and keep your family safe.