What is RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)

RSV
Reading Time: 5 min

What is RSV? It is the most common cause of lower respiratory tract disease in infants and causes >50,000 hospitalizations of children under 5 years of age in the United States each year.

RSV is found everywhere; almost all children are infected by age 4. The incidence rate usually increases in winter or early spring. Because the immune response to this virus does not protect against reinfection, the incidence rate is approximately 40% for all exposed individuals. However, antibodies to respiratory syncytial virus reduce the severity of illness.

RSV most commonly affects young children, in whom the infection causes inflammation of the lower respiratory tract—bronchiolitis. However, it is not advisable to take this virus lightly, as it is quite unpredictable and can lead to serious complications. In adults, the disease mainly occurs with upper respiratory tract involvement.

Causes of RSV

RSV is transmitted by a sick person or a carrier. The virus is mainly spread by airborne droplet transmission, less frequently by airborne dust or household contact. The greatest susceptibility to respiratory syncytial infection is noted among premature infants, children aged 4-5 months to 3 years.

What is RSV virus? How long is RSV contagious? The causative agents of RSV are RNA-containing viruses. They are unstable in the environment: at 37ºC, they are inactivated within 7 hours, and at 55ºC, they die instantly. However, they will tolerate low temperatures, and in mucus droplets, they persist from 20 minutes to 6 hours. RSV is characterized by rapid spread in collectives and high contagiousness (infectiousness). The virus enters the body through the pharynx and nasopharynx. Then, it multiplies in the mucous membrane and spreads to the lower respiratory tract. In the focus of the lesion, inflammation appears. Infected people can transmit the virus as early as the day after infection, even before the first symptoms appear.

It’s important to note that RSV is a common virus, and most people recover from it without complications. However, if you or your child is experiencing severe RSV symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical attention.

Symptoms of RSV

RSV infection can progress with different severity. RSV symptoms in adults may be consistent with a mild upper respiratory tract infection. However, the disease may be so severe that hospitalization is required. Fatalities are possible in rare cases.

In children, most often everything starts with a runny nose and loss of appetite. In addition, the throat may become inflamed. Then, there is coughing and sneezing, and body temperature often rises. During the disease, lower respiratory tract infections with a wet cough. These include inflammation of the small bronchi of the lower respiratory tract (bronchiolitis), as well as inflammation of the lungs. Inflammation and mucus production can lead to the narrowing of the airways with difficult and very rapid breathing, as well as shortness of breath. In newborns, breathing delays (apnea) may occur. Reduced oxygen content in the blood becomes visible through the bluish coloring of the skin. In severe cases, artificial ventilation may be required. That’s why it’s important to schedule regular visits with your primary care physician.

First of all, symptoms of RSV in adults can go unnoticed. However, adults can also have common RSV symptoms. Adults with chronic heart and lung disease, a weakened immune system or aged 65 years and older may have pneumonia.

Diagnosis of RSV

How is RSV diagnosed? Clinical diagnosis of RSV is difficult because of its similarity to other acute respiratory diseases. The predominance of bronchitis symptoms is taken into account in adults. Young children are characterized by the rapid development of signs of bronchiolitis and pneumonia. The serological method is ubiquitously used for in vitro diagnostics, which can be used to examine antibody levels. RSV is often diagnosed based on a combination of symptoms of RSV in adults and medical history. However, in some cases, a healthcare provider may order additional tests to confirm the diagnosis. These tests may include:

  • Nasal swab: A healthcare provider may collect a sample of mucus from your nose to test for the RSV virus.
  • Chest X-ray: A chest X-ray can help identify if RSV has caused pneumonia or other lung problems.
  • Blood tests: Blood tests may be used to check for signs of infection and rule out other conditions.

The hallmark of RSV is a dry, debilitating, attack-like cough lasting up to three weeks. Patients may also have shortness of breath, a feeling of heaviness in the chest, and cyanosis of the lips. In 25% of cases, the disease leads to pneumonia.

Treatment Options for RSV

RSV treatment is usually symptomatic: it aims to relieve symptoms and prevent complications. How long are you contagious with RSV? In most cases, RSV infection in children goes away on its own without any treatment in 1-2 weeks. Antibiotics are useless against viral infections, and the RS virus is no exception. Antibiotics are prescribed for patients with fever, signs of pneumonia on chest X-ray, and clinical suspicion of bacterial co-infection.

The physician may also prescribe:

  • antiviral agents;
  • cough suppressants, expectorants and anti-inflammatory syrups;
  • antihistamines.

If necessary, nasal drops and medications for sore throat are used. With an elevated temperature, it is better to observe bed rest. Severe forms of RSV need hospitalization of the patient. Treatment in a hospital may include:

  • Oxygen therapy: Oxygen can help improve breathing.
  • Intravenous fluids: Fluids may be administered through a vein to prevent dehydration.
  • Albuterol: This medication can help open up the airways.

Preventing RSV

RSV is highly contagious – this means it is very easily passed from person to person. How can I prevent RSV? Some simple preventive measures can help you avoid contracting the disease:

  1. avoid close contact with anyone you think may be sick.
  2. make sure your child does not share personal items with other children. 
  3. wash your hands often and make it a habit for your child to do so;
  4. try to avoid touching the face, eyes, mouth or nose unnecessarily and teach this to your baby.

During flu season, it’s essential to take preventive measures such as getting vaccinated and practicing good hygiene to reduce the risk of infection. RSV is extremely common in young children and is easily passed from child to child. Understanding the difference between COVID and flu is crucial, as both have similar symptoms but require different approaches for testing and treatment.

There is no vaccine against respiratory syncytial virus. All preventive measures are aimed at increasing immunity (healthy diet, promotion of an active lifestyle, hardening, etc.). In certain cases, high-risk infants (such as premature babies or those with chronic lung or heart conditions) may receive a monthly injection of palivizumab, a medication that helps prevent RSV complications. Exposure to tobacco smoke can increase the severity of RSV symptoms in adults, so it’s important to avoid smoking around children.

When to Seek Medical Attention

In many children, RSV only causes mild and normal syndrome complaints, whereas in some cases, it even leads to lung complications, especially in infants. You should understand when visiting a doctor is the best way for your child’s health.

A back-to-school medical check-up is the best way to ensure your child is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations before the new school year begins.

If you see any of these RSV symptoms, let them be seen by a doctor without delay: Difficulty breathing:

  1. Bluish color (Cyanosis):
  2. High fever:
    • In infants under 3 months, any fever higher than 100.4°F (38°C) requires immediate attention
    • In older children, fever over 102°F (39°C) that persists or is accompanied by other symptoms like lethargy or dehydration
  3. Severe cough:
  4. Signs of dehydration:
  5. Not eating or drinking:

For premature infants or high-risk children:

  • If your child was born prematurely, has a chronic lung condition, or a weakened immune system, contact your doctor at the first signs of RSV, as they may be at higher risk for complications.

If your child develops sudden symptoms, you can visit urgent care in Gaithersburg for quick and convenient medical attention. Trust your instincts—if your child seems unusually ill or if RSV symptoms are worsening, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider.

Conclusion

RSV is a common childhood illness, but it can be prevented and treated effectively. By following these tips, you can help protect your child from RSV symptoms and ensure a speedy recovery if they do become infected.

In case you have any doubts about the RSV or your child’s health, it is best to seek medical advice. The early diagnosis and treatment of RSV can prevent complications and complications.

All Day Medical Care Clinic Team

Autor

All Day Medical Care Clinic Team

This article was prepared with the All Day Medical Care Clinic Team and its experienced clinic providers, ensuring accurate and reliable health information.

What is Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)?

What is conjunctivitis? Pink eye is a condition where the inner layer of the eyelids and the protective layer of...
Read More

How to Cope with Chronic Illness During the Holiday Season

The holiday season is always associated with joy and happiness, but for people with chronic conditions, this time can be...
Read More

Parent’s Guide to Teen Depression

Depression in teens is more than just a bad mood. Depression is characterized by a prolonged state of being down,...
Read More

Understanding What a Weight Management Program Involves

It’s no secret that losing weight is hard. However, weight management programs give you the tools and confidence you need...
Read More

6 Benefits of Group Therapy

If the idea of group therapy has left you feeling embarrassed or intimidated, we have good news for you: Group therapy...
Read More

Marathon Running Safety: How to Train Safely

After deciding to take up long-distance running, everyone asks: where to start and what are the best running safety tips?...
Read More

Depression and Sleep Problems: How Are They Connected?

People often think about health conditions individually. For instance, you have insomnia, or you have depression, and you seek treatment...
Read More

Essential Screenings for Women’s Health Exams

There’s a reason why a routine health exam can feel, well, routine. That’s because these appointments establish a baseline of...
Read More

Baby’s First Year: Doctor Visit Schedule

Bringing a baby home comes with magical milestones and unexpected twists and turns. But, there’s one thing you can expect:...
Read More

Work Injury? Get Evaluated and Plan Your Recovery

Unfortunately, workplace injuries are a common problem. In 2020 alone, 2.7 million people sustained nonfatal illnesses and injuries on the job, and...
Read More

Secondary Trauma: Help Others, Protect Yourself

  What is Secondary Trauma Secondary traumatic stress is the emotional duress that results when an individual hears about the...
Read More

How Often Should I Get a Physical?

Taking a trip to the doctor may seem unnecessary when you seem perfectly healthy. However, regular physical exams provide a...
Read More

Should I Be Tested for COVID-19?

The COVID-19 pandemic has triggered a flood of information — many details of which continue to change as the medical community constantly...
Read More

Effective Heat Rash Treatment and Prevention

Heat rash, or prickly heat, is a condition caused by blocked sweat ducts. It often appears as a red, bumpy...
Read More

Understanding ADHD: What You Need to Know

Many parents often come to see a psychologist with complaints about their child's inattention, inattentiveness, increased mobility, inability to control...
Read More

What to Expect During Your First Well-Woman Exam

There’s no specific age to begin having well-woman visits. You might start having these critical annual checkups as a teenager, or...
Read More

What STD Tests Should I Consider?

In 2018, an estimated 68 million people in the United States had an STD, or sexually transmitted disease. Unfortunately, that number was...
Read More

Home-Based Child Behavioral Disorder Help

No one ever said being a parent was easy. But it can be even more challenging when your child has...
Read More

Introduction to Stress and Its Impact on Health

The list of stress-related illnesses is only getting longer as the years go by. In moments of special experiences, the...
Read More

Types of Work Injuries

Did you know that someone gets an injury on the job every seven seconds in the United States? To provide a little...
Read More

Strengthen Your Relationship with Couples Counseling

People make a lot of assumptions about therapy, especially when it involves relationships. For instance, you may assume your problems...
Read More

STD Awareness: Popular Questions, Advice, Treatments

Sexually transmitted diseases, STIs and STDs (sexually transmitted infections and sexually transmitted diseases) are a widespread problem. World Health Organization...
Read More

How Mental Health Issues Affect Men Differently

Men's mental health issues affect them differently due to various societal, biological, and cultural factors. Men are often expected to...
Read More

Sore Throat vs Strep Symptoms: How To Tell The Difference

Soreness and throat infection are two entirely different maladies with different pathogens and remedies. It is important to tell the...
Read More

How Can You Ease Back-to-School Anxiety and Stress?

The beginning of the school year usually brings joy to school children. Many of them have missed school for six...
Read More

Dizziness: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Very often patients come to a neurologist with dizziness. Indeed, no one has ever experienced it. This term describes a...
Read More

5 Signs Your Anxiety is Problematic

If anxiety is a problem, either for you or your child, it’s important to know that you can get relief...
Read More

When Should I Go to the ER Instead of Urgent Care?

Health problems often come out of nowhere, especially when they involve an injury. However, whether you have a fever that...
Read More

How to Know if You Have an Urgent Care Need

Advancements in technology have made it possible to get medical care as easily as possible. In fact, thanks to virtual “telemedicine”...
Read More

Can You Get Sick From The Flu Shot?

As fall arrives, the question of flu vaccination comes up more and more often, and of course, we often hear...
Read More

Can Therapy Save My Marriage?

In the United States, 40-50% of marriages end in divorce. Those numbers can seem alarming, but they’re also starting to drop,...
Read More

10 Home Remedies for Strep Throat Symptoms

Pharyngitis or strep throat is one of the most frequent reasons for visiting general physicians and otolaryngologists (statistically about 15%)....
Read More

How Suboxone Works to Treat Opioid Addiction

  Understanding Opioids and Opioid Addiction Opioids are substances commonly prescribed for pain relief. They activate natural pain receptors in...
Read More

Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Mental Health, Anxiety, and Depression

According to a scientific brief published by the World Health Organization (WHO), in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic,...
Read More

Heart Health Screenings: Everything You Need to Know

Heart health screenings are very important for early detection and prevention of cardiovascular diseases, which are leading causes of morbidity...
Read More

9 Tips to Live a Healthy Lifestyle – And Why It’s Important

Have you ever wondered what a healthy lifestyle includes? Why should we keep living healthily? There is no such person...
Read More

The Importance of Getting Your Women’s Health Screening

It can be hard to keep up with the demands of everyday life, especially if you feel pulled in numerous...
Read More

What is Mindfulness? Best Practice for Greater Well-being

Mindfulness is a relatively new field that has gained extremely wide popularity and application in recent years for overcoming distress,...
Read More

The Differences Between Flu and COVID-19

At a glance, it can be easy to confuse the flu and COVID-19. After all, they’re both respiratory illnesses, they’re...
Read More

Why Relationships Are Key to Well-Being

Unlock the true potential of your well-being by embracing the power of healthy relationships! Imagine a life filled with joy,...
Read More

What is RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)

What is RSV? It is the most common cause of lower respiratory tract disease in infants and causes >50,000 hospitalizations...
Read More

What Is the Difference Between Behavioral Health and Mental Health?

While often used interchangeably, behavioral health vs mental health are distinct concepts. Mental wellness pertains to your psychological well-being, encompassing...
Read More

Telehealth: The Advantages of Telemedicine

The COVID-19 pandemic has triggered dramatic changes throughout everyday life — and in the medical community as well. Not only...
Read More

Guide to Treatment-Resistant STDs for Active Adults

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can be a source of stigma and embarrassment, and, unfortunately, this often keeps people from getting...
Read More

15 Ways to Keep Your Brain Young and Healthy

Like any complex mechanism, our brain requires attention and care, so that even in older age it continues to operate...
Read More

 Rett Syndrome

Understanding Rett Syndrome Rett syndrome is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder that primarily affects young girls. After a period of normal...
Read More

7 Habits for Your Heart-Healthy Living

7 Habits for Your Heart-Healthy Living A healthy heart needs a healthy lifestyle. That doesn't mean you should rush to...
Read More

How Stress Can Increase Your Risk for Heart Disease

Do you know that stress has a great impact on human health, and in most cases, in a negative way?...
Read More

New Year’s Cholesterol Control: Top 5 Tips

Approximately 1 out of 8 Americans have high total cholesterol values. However, not all cholesterol is bad, and there are many ways...
Read More

Five Reasons Why You Should Get an Annual Check-Up

Modern life is busy and exciting and goes by at a quick pace. However, health care often becomes an afterthought,...
Read More

We'll text you

Enter your info and we’ll text you shortly.

By clicking Send, I agree to the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, and I consent to receiving text messages from this practice acknowledging that data rates may apply. Message frequency varies.