28/06/2025
Understanding RSV: A Patient’s Guide to Respiratory Syncytial Virus
By MediHaven General Practitioner and Medical Centre
What is RSV?
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a highly contagious virus that causes infections of the lungs and respiratory tract. It is one of the most common causes of bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lungs) and pneumonia in infants and young children. While RSV can affect individuals of all ages, it is most severe in:
• Babies under 2 years of age
• Premature infants
• Children with heart or lung conditions
• Elderly adults
• Immunocompromised individuals
How is RSV Spread?
RSV spreads through:
• Droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes
• Direct contact (e.g., kissing a baby who has the virus)
• Surfaces (e.g., touching toys or doorknobs contaminated with the virus)
The virus can survive for several hours on hard surfaces and is most contagious in the early stages when symptoms begin to appear.
Signs and Symptoms of RSV
RSV symptoms typically appear 4–6 days after exposure and include:
• Runny nose
• Decreased appetite
• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Fever
• Wheezing or difficulty breathing
In infants and very young children, RSV may present as irritability, poor feeding, lethargy, or pauses in breathing (apnea).
When to Seek Medical Help
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice:
• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
• Bluish color around the lips or fingernails (cyanosis)
• Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, no tears when crying, fewer wet diapers)
• Extreme fatigue or unresponsiveness
How is RSV Diagnosed?
Doctors can diagnose RSV based on symptoms and a physical examination. In some cases, a nasal swab test, chest X-ray, or oxygen level measurement may be performed, especially in severe or hospitalized cases.
Treatment for RSV
There is no specific cure for RSV, but symptoms are managed with supportive care:
• Hydration: Encourage fluid intake to prevent dehydration
• Fever management: Paracetamol or ibuprofen (avoid aspirin in children)
• Nasal suctioning: Helps infants breathe better
• Oxygen therapy or hospitalization may be needed in severe cases
Antibiotics are not effective unless there is a secondary bacterial infection.
Prevention of RSV
While there is no widely available RSV vaccine for the general population (yet), prevention is crucial:
• Hand hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water
• Avoid sick contacts: Especially for babies and vulnerable individuals
• Clean surfaces regularly
• Don’t smoke around children: Secondhand smoke worsens respiratory symptoms
• Limit daycare exposure during peak RSV season (typically autumn to early spring)
• Wear masks and maintain distance if you are sick
New monoclonal antibody treatments like Nirsevimab are now approved for high-risk infants to prevent severe RSV infections.
RSV in Adults
In adults, RSV symptoms often resemble the common cold, but in the elderly or those with underlying health conditions, it can lead to more serious complications such as pneumonia or exacerbation of asthma or COPD.
Final Thoughts
RSV is a serious but preventable and manageable virus. With rising cases globally, awareness and early intervention are essential—especially for protecting our most vulnerable.
If you or your child experience any concerning symptoms, consult your healthcare provider promptly.
For more information or guidance, please contact your local healthcare provider or visit reputable sources like the WHO or CDC.
