RSV infection in adults

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that infects the nose, throat, lungs and airway passages. RSV spreads through contact with respiratory droplets from an infected person, or by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

RSV is the leading cause of lower respiratory tract infections in infants and young children. However, older adults can also contract RSV.

According to the CDC, RSV is responsible for an estimated 60,000 to 120,000 hospitalizations and about 6,000 to 10,000 deaths in older adults in the United States each year.

Which adults are at highest risk for a severe RSV infection?

• Older adults, especially over the age of 65
• Adults with chronic heart or lung disease
• Adults with weakened immune systems

Severe RSV infection in adults

Most adults who contract RSV develop mild cold-like symptoms such as runny nose, coughing, sneezing and fever. Healthy adults may have very mild symptoms but can still spread RSV to others. Some adults at high risk can progress to RSV pneumonia.

People infected with RSV are usually contagious for 3 to 8 days. People typically need 1 to 2 weeks to recover from RSV.

RSV can also worsen serious underlying lung conditions (such as asthma or COPD) and heart conditions (such as congestive heart failure).

Prevention

• Cover coughs and sneezes
• Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• Avoid close contact with others who are sick
• Avoid touching the face, particularly the eyes, nose and mouth
• Clean frequently touched surfaces (such as doorknobs)
• Consult a health care professional if you have cold-like symptoms that linger or worsen

Sources: CDC, National Foundation for Infectious Diseases, Medscape.

This article is general information, not advice for your situation. Members can call the office with questions about their own care.