What is RSV?
RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is one of the most common respiratory viral infections in children. It can lead to inflammation of the respiratory tract and lungs. The peak time for RSV to spread is during autumn and winter.
Most children and adults with RSV will have mild symptoms similar to the common cold and recover in one to two weeks. In children younger than 1 year, RSV is the most common cause of inflammation of the lungs, such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia.
Who is at risk?
People of any age can contract RSV, but those at the highest risk of complications include:
- Premature infants and children under 2
- Infants under the age of 6 months
- Children under 2 with chronic lung diseases, such as asthma
- Children under 2 with congenital (from birth) heart problems
- Children with neuromuscular disorders that cause difficulty in clearing mucus secretions or swallowing
- Adults and children with weakened immune systems due to illnesses or medical conditions
- Older adults with heart or lung problems
Causes and spread
RSV is highly contagious and can be spread by coming into contact with fluids from an infected person’s nose or mouth. In most cases, people with RSV are contagious for three to eight days after their first exposure. However, if an infant or someone with a weak immune system contracts the illness, they may be contagious for up to four weeks.
Symptoms
Typically, RSV symptoms start within four to six days after exposure. Early symptoms are often mild and similar to those of a common cold. Common symptoms may include runny nose, cough, sneezing, wheezing, decreased appetite, low grade fever. In some cases, the infection will lead to severe respiratory disease in infants.
Contact a doctor if you notice high fever, worsening cough, wheezing, nostril flaring or chest muscles visibly pulling in and out, signalling breathing issues, irregular or rapid breathing, blue colouring of skin (lips and fingers), tiredness, trouble eating, drinking or swallowing.
Treatment
For those with mild symptoms, no specific treatment is necessary. Over-the-counter pain relievers or fever reducers can help manage symptoms. Aspirin should NOT be given to children or teenagers during viral illnesses. People with RSV should drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. Children with severe symptoms may require a hospital visit to receive more fluids, oxygen therapy, nebulisation or more respiratory support if required.
RSV prevention for babies
The following steps are recommended to prevent RSV in babies and infants, especially among high-risk children:
- Wash their hands for at least 20 seconds
- Disinfect surfaces that people come into contact with regularly, such as door knobs, handles and countertops
- Cover the mouth and nose while coughing
- Avoid exposure to tobacco smoke
- When possible, avoid or restrict group settings during RSV season
