Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that affects the nose, throat, and lungs, often causing mild, cold-like symptoms but potentially leading to severe illness in certain populations. Below is a detailed overview of RSV, including its symptoms, causes, transmission, complications, and treatment.
Symptoms of RSV
RSV typically presents with symptoms similar to the common cold, making it difficult to distinguish from other respiratory viruses like the flu or COVID-19. Symptoms usually appear 2 to 8 days after exposure and may include:
In infants, symptoms can be more subtle or severe, including irritability, difficulty breathing, poor feeding, and decreased activity13. Severe cases can progress to lower respiratory tract infections such as pneumonia or bronchiolitis, with signs like rapid or shallow breathing, severe cough, and bluish skin due to lack of oxygen (cyanosis)1.
Causes and Transmission
RSV is caused by a virus in the Pneumoviridae family and is specific to humans, infecting cells along the respiratory tract5. It spreads easily through:
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Respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing
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Direct contact, such as shaking hands or kissing
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Contact with contaminated surfaces like countertops, toys, or crib rails, where the virus can survive for hours126
An infected person is most contagious during the first week of illness, though infants and those with weakened immune systems may remain contagious for up to four weeks, even after symptoms resolve12. RSV follows a seasonal pattern, with increased activity typically occurring from fall to early spring in many regions, including Canada and the US37.
Populations at Risk and Complications
While RSV often causes mild illness in healthy individuals, it can be severe or life-threatening for certain groups. Those at highest risk include:
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Infants, especially those under 6 months or born prematurely
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Older adults, particularly those over 65 or 75
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Individuals with chronic heart or lung disease, diabetes, obesity, or weakened immune systems
Complications from RSV can include bronchiolitis (inflammation of small airways), pneumonia, worsening of asthma or COPD, and congestive heart failure in adults28. Globally, RSV causes over 3.6 million hospitalizations and about 100,000 deaths annually in children under 5, with most deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries5. In the US, it is the leading cause of infant hospitalization, with 58,000-80,000 hospital stays among children under 5 each year, and 100,000-160,000 hospitalizations in adults over 6046.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis of RSV is often based on symptoms and the time of year, as it circulates seasonally. In hospital settings, a nasal swab may be used to confirm the diagnosis37. For most people, RSV is mild and resolves on its own within 1 to 2 weeks with supportive care, such as:
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Drinking plenty of fluids
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Getting adequate rest
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Using over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to manage fever (consult a healthcare provider for appropriate use)3
In severe cases, hospitalization may be required for oxygen support or treatment of dehydration. Immediate medical care is recommended if there are signs of difficulty breathing or dehydration13.
Prevention and Reinfection
RSV reinfection is common throughout life, though subsequent infections are often less severe in healthy individuals. However, reinfection can still pose serious risks for older adults and high-risk groups35. Preventive measures include staying home when ill, limiting contact with at-risk individuals, and practicing good hygiene, such as handwashing3. Recent advancements include licensed vaccines for adults over 60-75 and those at high risk, as well as a long-acting monoclonal antibody and maternal vaccine for protecting infants58.
RSV remains a significant public health concern due to its impact on vulnerable populations and the potential for severe respiratory complications. If you or a loved one exhibit symptoms, especially in high-risk groups, consult a healthcare provider for guidance.
Citations:
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/respiratory-syncytial-virus/symptoms-causes/syc-20353098
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/rsv-respiratory-syncytial-virus
- https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/respiratory-syncytial-virus-rsv.html
- https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/index.html
- https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/respiratory-syncytial-virus-(rsv)
- https://www.nfid.org/infectious-disease/rsv/
- https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/respiratory-syncytial-virus-rsv/health-professionals.html
- https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/rsv/rsv-in-adults
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