Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection is a common and highly contagious viral illness that affects people of all ages, but it most severely affects young children and older adults. RSV is the leading cause of lower respiratory tract infections, such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia, in infants and young children worldwide.

Causes and Risk Factors

RSV is a member of the Pneumoviridae family and is spread through close contact with an infected person, usually through respiratory droplets that are released when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes. The virus can also survive on surfaces for several hours and can be transmitted through contact with contaminated objects.

Certain groups of people are at higher risk of developing severe RSV infection, including:

• Infants under 6 months old
• Premature infants
• Children with certain underlying health conditions, such as heart disease or lung disease
• Older adults, especially those with weakened immune systems
• People with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy

Symptoms

The symptoms of RSV infection can range from mild to severe and may include:

• Runny nose
• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Wheezing or difficulty breathing
• Apnea (pauses in breathing) in infants

Diagnosis

RSV infection is typically diagnosed based on a physical examination and medical history. A healthcare provider may also perform diagnostic tests, such as:

• Rapid antigen detection test
• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test
• Chest X-ray to check for pneumonia or other complications

Treatment and Prevention

There is no specific treatment for RSV infection, but symptoms can be managed with:

• Over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to reduce fever and relieve headaches and body aches
• Nasal suctioning to help clear out mucus
• Oxygen therapy to help increase oxygen levels in the blood
• Supportive care, such as hydration and rest

To prevent RSV infection, the following measures can be taken:

• Frequent hand washing with soap and water
• Avoiding close contact with anyone who has a cold or other respiratory illness
• Keeping surfaces clean and disinfected
• Avoiding sharing utensils, glasses, or other personal items
• Getting vaccinated against RSV (a vaccine is available for certain high-risk groups, such as premature infants)

Complications

In severe cases of RSV infection, complications can occur, including:

• Bronchiolitis
• Pneumonia
• Asthma
• Respiratory failure
• Death (in rare cases)