Pronounced: RES-pi-ra-to-re sin-SISH-al VI-rus
by Laurie Rosenblum, MPH
En Espaol (Spanish Version) Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of many types of infections of the respiratory system (lungs and breathing passages), including:
Although these infections can happen at any age, they occur most commonly and are usually most severe in infants, young children, and the elderly. In severe cases, RSV infections can cause death.
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RSV is spread through infected fluids of the mouth and nose. The virus most often enters the body from touching the mouth, nose, or eyes. It can also be spread by inhaling droplets from a sneeze or cough.
RSV is a very contagious virus. It can survive on surfaces and objects for hours and is easily passed from person to person. Virus shedding (contagious) usually lasts for 3-8 days, but may last for up to four weeks.
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.Risk factors include:
- Age: infants and young children, especially those under 2 years old
- Exposure to a person infected with the virus or an object contaminated with the virus
- Premature birth of an infant
- Problems with the heart, lungs, or immune system
- Present or recent use of chemotherapy
- Having had an organ or bone marrow transplant
- Problems associated with muscle weakness
The symptoms of RSV infection vary and usually differ with age and previous exposure to RSV. Very young children, the elderly, and people with chronic diseases are more likely to have severe symptoms.
In children younger than age three, RSV can cause illness such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia. Symptoms may include: Stuffy or runny noseHigh feverSevere coughWheezingShortness of breathVery fast rate of breathingBluish color of the lips or fingernailsLethargy or irritabilityLack of appetite In children older than age three and in healthy adults, RSV typically causes an upper respiratory infection or cold. Symptoms commonly include: Runny or stuffy noseSore throatMild coughHeadacheLow-grade fever DiagnosisThe doctor will ask about you or your child's symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. A variety of tests are available to diagnose RSV. Lab tests called antigen detection assays are commonly done using secretions from the nose. Treatment Mild Infections Mild infections, such as colds, do not need special treatment. The goal is to ease symptoms so that you or your child feels more comfortable while the body fights the virus. For symptom relief, try the following: Drink plenty of liquids, especially water and fruit juice, to help keep nasal fluid thin and easy to clear.Use a cool-mist vaporizer to humidify the air. This may help reduce coughing and soothe irritated breathing passages.Use saline (salt water) nose drops to loosen mucus in the nose.Use nonaspirin fever medicine, such as acetaminophen, as needed to reduce fever. Severe Infections People of all ages can develop severe infections from RSV, but it is most common in the very young. Such infections include pneumonia and bronchiolitis, and may require treatment in a hospital. This treatment is aimed at opening up breathing passages, and may include:
Humidified airSupplemental oxygenTreatments to improve breathingIn certain cases, mechanical ventilation (breathing machine) Prevention Healthful Habits Basic healthful practices are the best form of protection from RSV for most people. These include: Wash your hands often, especially after touching someone who may have a cold or other RSV infection.Avoid touching your face or rubbing your eyes.Do not share items such as cups, glasses, silverware, or towels with people who may have a cold or other RSV infection.Avoid smoke exposure. MedicineA manmade monoclonal antibody drug (palivizumab) directed against RSV injected on a monthly basis can significantly decrease the risk of severe infection in high-risk infants, such as those born prematurely or who have chronic lung disease. RESOURCES: American Lung Associationhttp://www.lungusa.org KidsHealth, The Nemours Foundationhttp://www.kidshealth.org CANADIAN RESOURCES: Primary Care Pediatrics Ontario Association of Pediatricianswww.utoronto.ca/kids Sick Kids (The Hospital for Sick Children)http://www.sickkids.ca/ References: American Lung Association website. Available at: http://www.lungusa.org . Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/ .
Committee on Infectious Diseases, American Academy of Pediatrics. Red Book 2006 . 27th ed. KidsHealth, The Nemours Foundation website. Available at: http://www.kidshealth.org . The Merck Manual of Diagnosis and Therapy . Simon and Schuster, Inc.; 1999. Last reviewed March 2008 by Kari L. Kassir, MDPlease be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
