RSV is one of several types of viruses that cause the common cold. It is transmitted from person to person through respiratory droplets or direct contact with a person who has RSV.
When someone with the infection coughs or sneezes, droplets carry the virus. You can contract RSV by inhaling these droplets or touching a surface where the droplets settle, such as a countertop or phone.
Usually, RSV causes a mild illness with symptoms such as cough, sore throat, and a runny or stuffy nose. However, age and certain medical conditions increase the risk of developing a serious infection.
This article explains who is at risk, the effects RSV can have, and how to work with your doctor to protect yourself.
Adults can continue to get RSV throughout their lifetime. This is because an infection results in only partial immunity. For most people, RSV only causes a cold and they never know it is RSV. However, some adults have a higher risk of serious complications, such as those who:
- have chronic heart or lung disease, such as congestive heart failure, asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- have weakened immune systems from treatments, such as chemotherapy or organ transplantation, or other health conditions, such as HIV
- are ages 65 years and older
According to the American Lung Association, up to 120,000 U.S. adults are hospitalized for RSV each year. RSV complications are fatal in up to 10,000 of these people.
When adults in a high risk group contract RSV, several complications are possible, including:
- asthma attacks or COPD flares
- bronchiolitis, which is inflammation of the small airways in the lungs
- pneumonia, which can be life threatening
- worsening heart failure symptoms
If you are in a high risk group and develop cold-like symptoms, it could be RSV. The usual recovery time is about 1–2 weeks. A cold that lingers longer than this requires your doctor’s attention.
You can also be alert for the following symptoms of severe RSV illness:
- bluish skin, lips, or fingernails
- cough that is getting worse
- high or persistent fever
- shortness of breath
- trouble breathing
- wheezing
Call your doctor or seek prompt medical care if these symptoms become severe.
RSV infection has seasonal trends. In the United States, fall is usually the start of RSV season. Infections peak during the winter months and decline through spring.
While you can practice prevention all year, the following tips are especially important during RSV season:
- Regularly clean and disinfect hard surfaces and frequently touched objects, such as phones and TV remotes.
- Cover coughs and sneezes in the crook of your elbow, or use a tissue and throw it away immediately.
- Do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth without washing your hands first.
- Limit close contact, such as kissing, with people who have a cold. Do not share utensils, foods, or drinks with them either.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. You can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
If you are sick, stay home. It will keep you from transmitting the infection to other people. If you are in a high risk group, it will also help you rest and recover.
People in high risk groups can also check in with their doctor if they get sick. Make sure you know the signs and symptoms to look for and what to do if your illness worsens.
Also, make sure you have everything you need at home, including prescription medications, to manage any medical conditions.
If you are age 60 years or older, ask your doctor about Arexvy. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved this RSV vaccine. It can help protect against serious RSV illness in adults.
However, people with weakened immune systems may not respond fully to it. Your doctor can let you know if it is right for you.
Talk with your doctor about RSV symptoms and how to best manage your medical condition to avoid complications.