RSV is a common respiratory illness. It’s usually mild, and you can get it many times in your life.
RSV mostly affects babies, young children, and older adults, but you can get it at any age.
RSV infection can lead to more serious illness, such as pneumonia, if you:
- are under age 2 years
- have heart or lung problems
- have a condition that affects your nervous system
- have a weak immune system
- are over age 65 years
RSV spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes and you breathe in the virus. It also spreads if you touch something that has the virus on it (such as hands or a doorknob), then touch your eyes, mouth, or nose.
Symptoms may include runny nose, sneezing, cough, wheezing, fever, sore throat, headache, feeling tired, and loss of appetite.
In babies, the only symptoms of RSV may be being less active, having trouble breathing and feeding, and, and getting upset easily.
Symptoms last 1 to 2 weeks.
To prevent RSV infection:
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unclean hands.
- Wash your hands regularly.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- If you are sick:
- Stay home.
- Cough or sneeze into a tissue or your elbow (not your hand).
- Avoid contact with people who are at high risk of severe RSV infection.
Learn more about respiratory syncytial virus.