Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)is a widespread virus that affects the lungs and airways. While it most commonly impacts young children, adults can also be infected.
In most cases, RSV causes only mild, cold-like symptoms. However, it can sometimes lead to more serious illness requiring hospital care. The virus circulates most actively during late autumn and winter.
How can RSV be prevented?
An RSV vaccination is a safe and effective way to help protect yourself from serious disease caused by RSV infection.
As the RSV virus can survive on surfaces and objects for up to 4 to 7 hours, it’s essential to maintain good hygiene practices to help prevent its spread. One of the most effective ways to reduce transmission is to regularly wash your hands with soap and water, especially after blowing your nose or coming into contact with someone unwell.
What are the common signs and symptoms of RSV?
The symptoms of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can vary depending on the person’s age and the severity of the infection. RSV is highly contagious and can spread when:
An infected person coughs or sneezes near you
You have direct contact with the virus (e.g. kissing someone who has RSV)
You touch a surface contaminated with virus droplets, such as toys, benchtops, or doorknobs
A person with RSV is typically contagious for three to eight days after symptoms begin. The virus can spread rapidly, especially in places like childcare centres and schools.
Symptoms by Age Group
Babies may show signs such as: Irritability, reduced appetite, changes in breathing patterns, less interest in activities, fever, respiratory symptoms like a runny nose and coughing
Toddlers may experience: Runny nose, coughing, sneezing, difficulty swallowing, faster-than-usual breathing, reduced appetite or reluctance to drink fluids, less interest in play
Older children and adults often have milder symptoms, including: Runny nose, nasal congestion, coughing, sore throat, mild headache, fever.
How is RSV diagnosed?
Doctors can usually diagnose RSV by reviewing a person’s medical history, assessing their symptoms, and performing a physical examination. In most cases, it's not essential to identify the specific virus causing the infection. However, if confirmation is needed, RSV can be diagnosed through6:
Nasal or throat swabs for PCR testing
Blood tests to check for antibodies to the virus.
What are the treatment options for RSV?
In most cases, RSV causes mild illness and can be managed at home7with rest, staying well-hydrated (which includes frequent feeds for babies), and using regular medications such as paracetamol or ibuprofen to reduce fever. Please note: that aspirin should never be given to children under 12 years of age.
To relieve a blocked nose, nasal saline drops can also be helpful. Your pharmacist can advise you on which products are best suited to your needs.
In more serious cases, hospital treatment may be necessary. This could involve the use of intravenous (IV) fluids and humidified oxygen to support breathing and hydration.
Because RSV is caused by a virus, antibiotics are not effective unless there is a secondary bacterial infection present.
When should you see a Doctor?
You should take your child to see a doctor if they’ve been unwell and:
their cough is getting worse
your baby is taking less than half their usual feeds or refusing food or drink
they seem more drowsy or less alert than usual
they have a high fever
you're concerned they are not getting better.
Seek immediate medical attention by visiting your local emergency department or calling 000 if:
your child is having difficulty breathing
they are making a grunting noise while breathing
their skin has a bluish tint
Please note: This information is intended as general advice and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical guidance. We recommend consulting a qualified healthcare professional for personalised advice and treatment.
Your MediADVICE pharmacist is here to support you with expert guidance on RSV. We offer RSV vaccinations to help protect against infection, provide personalised advice for managing symptoms, and recommend the most suitable products for your needs. If further care is required, we’re also able to refer you to a doctor.
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Disclaimer
General advice only – this information should not replace the information provided to you by your health care professional. If symptoms are severe or persist, please speak to your healthcare professional. Information is current as of date of publishing.