RSV on the Rise: How to Recognize Symptoms in Kids and Adults

Are you or your little ones feeling under the weather? With respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cases on the rise, it’s important to know how to recognize symptoms in both kids and adults. RSV is a common virus that can lead to serious complications, especially in infants and those with weakened immune systems. In this blog post, we’ll go over everything you need to know about RSV and how to spot it early on. So let’s dive in!

What is RSV?

RSV is a respiratory virus that is highly contagious and can cause serious health problems in young children and adults. Most people who get RSV don’t even know it, since the virus is usually mild and goes away on its own. But there are a few telltale signs that you or your child may be infected: fever, coughing, racing heart rate, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest pains, and severe diarrhea or vomiting. If you think your child may have RSV, take him or her to the doctor as soon as possible for antibiotics to help prevent more serious complications.

Signs and Symptoms of RSV in Kids

RSV is a respiratory illness that most often occurs in young children, but it can also affect adults. Symptoms of RSV include a fever, cough, and sore throat. RSV can also lead to pneumonia if it spreads from the lungs to other parts of the body.

To help prevent RSV infection, be aware of the signs and symptoms of this illness in your kids and take action if they show any signs or symptoms. Here are some tips for recognizing signs and symptoms of RSV in children:

1. Fever: The body’s natural defense against infection will cause a child’s temperature to rise when they have RSV. This is usually around 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius). If your child has a fever above 102 degrees Fahrenheit (39 degrees Celsius), take them to the doctor right away.

2. Coughing: A child with RSV will generally have a hacking cough that makes mucus. This may last anywhere from several days to several weeks.

3. Sore Throat: A sore throat is one of the most common symptoms of RSV and can be accompanied by an increase in mucus production, a decrease in appetite, and fatigue.

4. Trouble Breathing: If your child experiences shortness of breath or chest pain after catching RSV, call their doctor immediately. These could be signs that RSV has progressed from an upper respiratory tract infection into pneumonia territory.

If you think your child may have

Signs and Symptoms of RSV in Adults

The seasonal flu is back in full force and RSV is on the rise. Here are some signs and symptoms to watch for in adults:

Coughing: The body produces mucus to clear the lungs of infection, which may produce a cough.

Sneeze and sneezing: RSV causes congestion in the lungs and it can cause a person to sneeze or cough up mucus.

Wheezing: RSV can also cause shortness of breath, which may be accompanied by wheezing.

Chest pain: RSV can also lead to chest pain, especially if it’s caught early.

How to Treat RSV in Kids and Adults

RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is a respiratory virus that can cause severe bronchitis, pneumonia, and even death in kids and adults. RSV is highly contagious and spreads through the air from person to person. It’s most common during the winter months, but can occur at any time of year.

If you think your child has RSV, take them to the doctor immediately. The doctor will perform a physical exam and may give your child antibiotics to prevent pneumonia. If you are an adult with RSV, you’ll need to take precautions to avoid spreading the virus to others. Wash your hands often, cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze, and stay home if you have a fever.

Prevention of RSV

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a respiratory infection that is highly contagious. It is most often spread through contact with saliva, mucus, or other respiratory secretions from an infected person. RSV can also be spread through close contact with an infected child’s toys, bedding, or other objects.

Symptoms of RSV include fever, cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain. In children, RSV can cause wheezing and difficulty breathing. In adults, RSV can cause more severe symptoms including pneumonia, bronchitis, and even death.

To prevent RSV in children and adults:

Stay informed about the latest RSV information by following public health alerts and updates from your health care provider.

avoid close contact with people who are sick or have recently been sick with RSV
wash your hands often to prevent the spread of the virus
try to avoid touching your face; do not kiss anyone