What is RSV?

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is one of the most common respiratory viruses.  RSV causes cold-like symptoms in adults in children, but can be more serious for young babies.  Because RSV can infect the entire respiratory system, the symptoms include everything from a runny nose to coughing and wheezing.  RSV season usually starts in the fall and runs through the spring.

Is RSV a rare virus?
No!  RSV is a major cause of respiratory illnesses in newborns, infants and children.  Even adults can get sick with RSV because we can get RSV more than once in our lifetime.  Almost every child has had at least one RSV infection by his or her second birthday.

What are the symptoms of RSV?
Usually, RSV causes mild, cold-like symptoms like a runny nose and fever.  If the lungs are involved, the symptoms may include a frequent cough, wheezing or even difficulty breathing.  Rarely, a baby can get so sick with RSV that the infant must be hospitalized for close monitoring and supportive care.

Is RSV contagious?
Yes – RSV is spread by coming into contact with secretions from an infected person’s nose or mouth.  This contact usually happens from sneezing or coughing.  RSV is a hardy virus and the germs can live on objects such as toys for several hours.  It is very easily spread in any group child care setting.

How can RSV be prevented?
Good handwashing is the very best way to keep yourself or your child from getting sick with RSV.  Use soap and water or a disinfectant frequently during the RSV season.  Avoid touching your nose, mouth or eyes so you don’t spread RSV germs to your respiratory system. 

Premature babies and babies with chronic lung disease or heart problems are at higher risk of getting very sick if they catch RSV.  The lungs of a premature baby are not fully developed and because they were born early, they may not have received virus fighting substances (called antibodies) from their mothers that help them fight off RSV.  These infants may require monthly shots of a medicine called Synagis during their first RSV season to help prevent them from getting seriously ill with RSV.  Your baby’s healthcare provider will let you know if your baby will need the Synagis injections.  Full-term babies and babies without chronic lung disease usually handle an RSV infection just like a cold and don’t need the monthly Synagis injections.

How is an RSV infection treated?
There is not any specific treatment or cure for RSV.  Like most respiratory viruses, it just has to run it’s course.  If a baby is having difficulty breathing due to RSV, the baby may require hospitalization for monitoring and perhaps respiratory support such as oxygen or even a ventilator.  If a baby is having a hard time eating because of the congestion or rapid breathing, IV fluids might be necessary.

Is there anything to worry about after the RSV infection has cleared up?
Most infants and children easily recover from an RSV infection.  Some young children may develop a tendency to wheeze with respiratory viruses after they have RSV.  Scientists continue to study whether or not there is a link between severe RSV disease and asthma.