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Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection
Moderate
Respiratory syncytial virus infection is a common viral respiratory illness that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. These may include runny nose, congestion, cough, sneezing, fever, reduced appetite, and wheezing. RSV can sometimes cause more serious illness, including bronchiolitis or pneumonia, particularly in infants, older adults, and people with certain medical conditions.
Body System
Respiratory System
When to Seek Medical Attention
Respiratory syncytial virus infection is usually mild but can cause bronchiolitis or pneumonia, particularly in infants, older adults, and people with underlying conditions. Seek prompt care for worsening cough, wheezing, poor fluid intake, or increasing breathing difficulty. Emergency assessment is needed for severe breathing problems, bluish skin or lips, marked lethargy, dehydration, or inability to maintain oxygenation.
Symptoms
3
Causes
1
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Respiratory syncytial virus infection is a common viral respiratory illness that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. These may include runny nose, congestion, cough, sneezing, fever, reduced appetite, and wheezing. RSV can sometimes cause more serious illness, including bronchiolitis or pneumonia, particularly in infants, older adults, and people with certain medical conditions.
Symptoms 3
Chest Pain
Dry Cough
Fever
Causes 1
RSV infection is caused by respiratory syncytial virus. The virus spreads mainly through respiratory particles and through contact with contaminated surfaces followed by touching the eyes, nose, or mouth. Infection can occur when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or has close contact with another person. RSV commonly spreads in homes, schools, childcare settings, and other shared environments.
Infection
Risk Factors
Severe RSV illness is more likely in very young infants, older adults, and people with certain chronic medical conditions or weakened immune systems. Risk may also be affected by underlying heart or lung disease. Crowded settings and close contact with infected people increase exposure to the virus, particularly during periods when RSV is circulating widely.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
RSV infection is often diagnosed from symptoms and clinical examination. Testing may be used when confirmation is important, particularly in people at higher risk of severe illness or in healthcare settings. Molecular tests such as PCR can detect RSV genetic material, while some rapid antigen tests can also identify infection. The clinician may also assess breathing and oxygen levels when respiratory symptoms are significant.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
RSV prevention includes reducing close contact with people who are sick, improving hand hygiene, cleaning frequently touched surfaces, and avoiding touching the face with unwashed hands
Staying home when ill can reduce spread
Vaccination or preventive antibody products may be recommended for certain infants, older adults, or other higher-risk groups according to current public health guidance
Prevention Guidance
RSV prevention includes reducing close contact with people who are sick, improving hand hygiene, cleaning frequently touched surfaces, and avoiding touching the face with unwashed hands. Staying home when ill can reduce spread. Vaccination or preventive antibody products may be recommended for certain infants, older adults, or other higher-risk groups according to current public health guidance.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Warm Soups
Help maintain hydration and comfort.
Fresh Fruits
Provide vitamins and antioxidants.
Herbal Tea
May soothe respiratory symptoms.
Foods to Avoid
Alcohol
May worsen dehydration.
Junk Food
Provides poor nutrition during illness.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
RSV is a viral infection that affects the respiratory tract.
Infants, older adults and immunocompromised individuals are at highest risk.
Cough, wheezing, fever and runny nose are common symptoms.
Clinical examination and viral testing help diagnosis.
Hand hygiene and avoiding exposure help prevention.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.