What is RSV Disease?

Overview

RSV disease is a common respiratory illness caused by the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). It affects people of all ages, but it is most severe in infants and young children. RSV is spread through contact with infected respiratory droplets, such as when someone coughs or sneezes. Symptoms of RSV disease can range from mild to severe, and can include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Wheezing
• Difficulty breathing

Causes

RSV is a virus that is spread through contact with infected respiratory droplets. These droplets can be produced when someone who is infected coughs or sneezes. RSV can also be spread through contact with contaminated objects, such as toys or doorknobs.

Risk Factors

Anyone can get RSV disease, but certain people are at higher risk for severe illness, including:

• Infants and young children
• Premature infants
• Children with chronic lung conditions, such as asthma or cystic fibrosis
• Children with weakened immune systems
• Adults over 65

Symptoms

Symptoms of RSV disease can range from mild to severe. In most cases, RSV disease causes mild symptoms, such as:

• Fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Wheezing

In severe cases, RSV disease can cause difficulty breathing and pneumonia. Symptoms of severe RSV disease can include:

• Rapid breathing
• Wheezing
• Difficulty breathing
• Cyanosis (bluish tint to the skin)

Diagnosis

RSV disease is diagnosed based on a physical examination and a review of the patient's symptoms. In some cases, a laboratory test may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

There is no specific cure for RSV disease. Treatment is supportive and focuses on relieving symptoms. Treatment may include:

• Rest
• Fluids
• Over-the-counter pain relievers and fever reducers
• In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary.

Prevention

There is no vaccine to prevent RSV disease. However, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of infection, including:

• Washing hands frequently with soap and water
• Covering coughs and sneezes
• Avoiding contact with people who are sick
• Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces

Outlook

Most people recover from RSV disease within a few weeks. However, in some cases, RSV disease can lead to serious complications, such as pneumonia or bronchiolitis. In rare cases, RSV disease can be fatal.

Was Ist Rsv Erkrankung