WHAT IS RESPIRATORY SYNCYTIAL VIRUS?

RSV can affect a person of any age but causes the most problems for the very young and very old.
Most babies have been infected at least once by the time they are 2 years old.

Babies can also be reinfected with the virus. Infection can happen again anytime throughout life. RSV infection in older children and adults may seem like an episode of severe asthma.

Babies born prematurely or with heart, lung, or immune system diseases are at increased risk for more severe illness.
While RSV infections are typically mild, there is still a possibility it could pose a severe impact, especially in older adults.

Part of that severe impact is that RSV infection can cause serious complications such as pneumonia or exacerbation of congestive heart failure (CHF), asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in older adults.

Symptoms of RSV:
Fever
Headache
Runny nose
Sore throat
Tiredness
Congestion
Cough

How does RSV spread?
Similar to some other respiratory infections, a cough or sneeze can easily spread RSV. And while you’re typically contagious for 3-8 days, some people, especially those with weakened immune systems, can be contagious for as long as 4 weeks—even after they stop showing symptoms.

Prevention:
Wash hands
Keep hands off face
Avoid close contact with sick people
Stay home when sick
Clean & disinfect surface areas around you
Vaccination – Adults should speak with their doctor or pharmacist to learn if RSV vaccination is right for them.

For more info:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/…/diagnosis…/drc-20353104
https://www.rsvandme.com/prevention/
https://www.cedars-sinai.org/…/respiratory-syncytial…