Respiratory syncytial (sin-SISH-uhl) virus, or RSV, is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms.
Most people recover in one to two weeks on their own. But it can be dangerous, especially for babies, young children, older adults and those with weakened immune systems.
RSV spreads through droplets that contain the virus. You can get it if you touch a surface that has the virus on it— like a doorknob or someone’s hands — and then touch your face. It also spread through droplets in coughs and sneezes.
You can spread RSV before you feel sick
People with RSV are contagious for three to eight days. RSV can spread one to two days before you feel sick. So it spreads easily in families and groups.
You can return to work, school and other activities when you have been without a fever for at least 24 hours and your symptoms have improved.
Recommendations for Preventing RSV (As of July 2024)
Adult Protection
RSV vaccines are recommended to all adults 60 years and older to protect from severe RSV.
There may be special recommendations to get the RSV vaccine for adults 60-74 years old if any of the following apply:
- Diagnosed with chronic heart or lung disease.
- Has a weakened immune system.
- Lives with certain medical conditions such as severe obesity or severe diabetes.
- Lives in a nursing home or long-term facility.
Three types of RSV vaccines are currently available: GSK Arexy, Pfizer Abrysvo, and Moderna mResvia. Ask your doctor to see if any of these vaccines are right for you.
Infant Protection
There are two routes of immunization to protect infants. Talk with your pediatrician or clinic about getting either:
- Maternal RSV vaccine (Pfizer Abrysvo) given to people who are pregnant during weeks 32-36 of their pregnancy.
- Infant antibody immunization (Nirsevimab) given to infants after birth before their first RSV Season (preferably before 8 months of age, but can be given up to 18 months)
Getting vaccinated only involves a single, lifetime dose. In other words, only one is needed, as no boosters are recommended at this time. If you’ve already received an RSV vaccine, you don’t need another dose.
To keep RSV from spreading:
- Stay home if you're sick.
- Keep sick kids home.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially when around someone who is sick.
- Clean high-touch surfaces often (doorknobs, light switches, counters, phones).
- Avoid touching your face if your hands are not clean (especially eyes, nose and mouth).
- Avoid close contact (kissing, shaking hands, and sharing cups or eating utensils) with sick people.
- Wear a mask, especially if you are sick or will be around someone who is sick.
Symptoms
Symptoms usually appear within a few days after infection.
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Coughing
- Fever
- Decrease in appetite
- Wheezing or trouble breathing
Symptoms usually appear in stages and not all at once. Call your healthcare professional if you or your child has trouble breathing or drinking enough fluids, or symptoms worsen.
Call 211 if you need help getting access to care.
Caring for someone who is sick
There is no specific treatment for RSV infection. Most infections go away on their own in one to two weeks.
- For babies, clean out their nose to help them breathe and get enough to eat. Talk to a provider or pharmacist about the best way to do this.
- Drink lots of fluids to prevent dehydration. Infants should have breast milk or formula.
- Give acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever and pain. Never give aspirin to children.
- Ask your doctor before giving your child non-prescription cold medicines. Some have ingredients that are not good for children.
If your child struggles to breathe despite fever-reducing medicine and cleaning out their nose, you may need to bring them to the emergency room or call 911. Call your doctor or clinic first, if possible.