Condition Basics

What is respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection?

Respiratory syncytial virus infection (RSV) is a lot like a bad cold. It causes the same symptoms. And like a cold, it's very common and spreads easily. Most children have it at least once by age 2. It may take older adults longer to recover from RSV and any problems caused by the infection.

What causes it?

A virus causes RSV infection. Like a cold virus, RSV attacks your nose, eyes, throat, and lungs. There are two main types of RSV and many subtypes (strains), so your body never becomes immune to it. You can get it again and again throughout your life. Sometimes during the same season.

What are the symptoms?

RSV usually causes the same symptoms as a bad cold, such as a cough, a stuffy or runny nose, a mild sore throat, an earache, and a fever. Babies with RSV may also have low energy, act fussy or cranky, or be less hungry than usual. Some children have more serious symptoms, like wheezing.

How is it diagnosed?

Doctors usually diagnose RSV by asking about the symptoms. There are tests for RSV, but they usually aren't needed. Your doctor may want to do testing if you or your child may be likely to have other problems. The most common test collects a sample of the fluid in the back of the nose.

How is RSV treated?

RSV usually goes away on its own. Home treatment is often all that's needed. You can help relieve symptoms by giving medicine to stop a fever. If your child is older than 12 months, try placing an extra pillow under the upper half of their body to make it easier to breathe and sleep.