Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
Learn About Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
In older children and healthy adults, RSV causes mostly mild, cold-like symptoms. But it can cause a serious infection in the lungs (bronchiolitis or pneumonia) among infants and adults with compromised immune systems.
RSV Symptoms and Diagnosis
RSV causes a wide variety of symptoms, ranging from very mild to life-threatening. The type and severity of symptoms depend on multiple factors, including the strain of the virus and if the patient has other underlying medical problems.
RSV Treatment and Prevention
Most healthy patients are expected to fully recover from RSV. However, it can be severe among the sickest patients. It is important to prevent RSV from spreading to others, especially very young children.
Questions to Ask Your Doctor About RSV
Making notes before your visit, as well as taking along a trusted family member or friend, can help you through an appointment with your doctor about RSV.