What is RSV?
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a respiratory illness that causes cold-like symptoms. It is a common virus and is typically lumped together with other respiratory infections that cause cold-like symptoms, such as coughing, a runny nose and sometimes even a fever. Like other respiratory illnesses, RSV is spread through droplets in the air and through physical contact or shared objects with someone who is sick with the virus. When RSV makes its way into your body through your eyes, nose or mouth, it can then cause you to become sick. It is possible to get RSV multiple times, even in the same year, because you do not develop complete immunity to it.
Many cases of RSV can be treated through self-care; however, the illness can be more challenging for those more vulnerable to its effects. Young infants, older adults and people with chronic conditions are more at risk when contracting RSV. If you’re feeling sick, it is important to avoid being in close contact with others, especially those at risk.
Symptoms of RSV
During the first few days of infection, both children and adults with RSV typically have signs of an upper respiratory infection. Symptoms are generally mild and usually clear up on their own after a few days, though they can last longer, especially when they lead to other serious conditions. Symptoms typically include:
- Runny nose
- Cough
- Decreased appetite
- Fatigue
- Fever
If you are still experiencing symptoms after a few days or they start getting worse, you should contact your primary care doctor or advanced practice provider (APP) immediately to make an appointment.
How does RSV impact people with chronic conditions?
People who have conditions including lung disease, cardiovascular disease and other disorders are at a higher risk for severe cases of RSV. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 6 in 10 adults have a chronic condition and 4 in 10 adults have multiple. RSV can sometimes also lead to the worsening of existing conditions such as:
- Asthma – a chronic lung disease that causes wheezing, coughing and tightness in your chest.
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) – a chronic lung disease that makes it hard to breathe.
- Congestive heart failure – when the heart can’t pump enough blood and oxygen through the body.
For people with the above conditions, the respiratory symptoms of RSV can compound existing challenges. Lung infections or pneumonia can worsen symptoms by reducing lung function and blood oxygen levels. Older adults and those with uncontrolled diabetes, cancer or taking chemotherapy are at greater risk for serious complications from RSV because of their weakened immune systems.
Why is RSV on the rise?
Virus strains change over time. In addition to RSV, doctors and APPs across the country are seeing an increase in many upper respiratory infections, including the flu and COVID-19. In the past, most children were infected with RSV by the time they turned two years old. Due to social distancing and masking during the pandemic, however, there were very cases of RSV leading to less immunity which may have delayed this typical window of exposure.
What steps can you take to avoid the spread of RSV?
The best way to stop the spread of RSV or any virus is to practice good hygiene habits. This is especially true during the winter months as people gather inside to avoid cold weather and celebrate holidays. Here are some ways you can stop the spread of RSV:
- Wash your hands.
- Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing.
- Sanitize commonly used surfaces.
- Stay home if you are feeling sick.
- Consider wearing a mask if you are going to be in crowded areas, such as airports, or if you are at high risk for getting a severe case of RSV.
- If you are age 60 or older, the CDC recommends taking the RSV vaccine to protect yourself against getting RSV. Ask your primary care doctor or APP if you or your loved one would be a good candidate.
Now that you know more about RSV, you can take the necessary steps to help keep you and your family healthy. For additional questions about RSV or to schedule an appointment with a Village Medical primary care doctor or APP, click here. To get the RSV vaccine, you can visit a conveniently located Walgreens pharmacy* that has the RSV vaccine available.
* Patients always have a choice in pharmacy.
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