What RSV is and what older adults should know
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is not the common cold. RSV is a contagious virus that can live for many hours on hard surfaces, like tables and doorknobs.
RSV is not a new virus. It causes symptoms similar to other respiratory viruses, and, though typically mild, it can have severe complications for older adults with certain underlying conditions.
The complications of an RSV infection? Pneumonia, hospitalization, or worse—which could cut short the things you love doing.
This site is here to help you discover important information about RSV, including:
The impact RSV has on older adults
The dangers of RSV for those with certain underlying conditions
RSV protection
Helpful RSV facts for you and questions to ask during your next doctor’s appointment
RSV vaccination is available.
RSV can cause severe symptoms in older adults with certain underlying conditions
Mild RSV illness typically can last up to 2 weeks, and may include:
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Cough
- Tiredness
What happens if you get RSV?
RSV can cause severe infection of the lungs and respiratory tract, which can be serious.
How does RSV spread?
RSV easily spreads through coughing or sneezing. Most adults will be contagious for 3-8 days. But those with weakened immune systems can be contagious up to 4 weeks or longer—even after they stop showing symptoms.
When is RSV season?
For the majority of the United States, RSV cases tend to:
• Rise from mid-September to November
• Peak from December to February
• Decline from early February to May
But the seasonality of RSV can vary. Factors such as geographic location, population density, or even climate can impact RSV activity.
There are no specific treatments for adults with RSV, so prevention is important. Vaccination is available and can help.
What do you know about RSV and pneumonia?
RSV can’t cause pneumonia.
answer:trueActually, RSV can lead to infections of the lower airways including the lungs which could result in a type of pneumonia. That's why vaccinating against RSV is important.
You're right. RSV can lead to infections of the lower airways including the lungs which could result in a type of pneumonia. That's why vaccinating against RSV is important.
RSV can cause infections of the lungs.
answer:trueCorrect. RSV can cause severe illness by infecting the lungs and lower airways.
Not quite. RSV can actually cause severe illness by infecting the lungs and lower airways.
Vaccines can prevent lung infections associated with RSV.
answer:trueYes. Getting vaccinated against RSV can help prevent severe infections involving the lungs.
As a matter of fact, getting vaccinated against RSV can help prevent severe infections involving the lungs.
RSV infection can be serious, but vaccination is available for adults 50+ with certain underlying conditions and those 75 and older. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about RSV vaccination.
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