Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that infects the nose, throat, and lungs. It typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms in most individuals. However, RSV can lead to more serious illness, particularly for infants, young children, and older adults, sometimes requiring hospitalization. The virus is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. RSV infections often follow a seasonal pattern, commonly increasing in the fall and winter months and continuing through early spring in temperate regions.
Understanding RSV Fever Duration
Fever is a common initial symptom of RSV infection, and its duration can vary depending on age and individual health. In children, an RSV-related fever typically lasts for 2 to 4 days. However, it may persist longer in more severe cases, sometimes extending beyond 5 days.
Adults with RSV may also develop a fever, although it is generally less common and often low-grade. When present, fever in adults usually resolves within a few days. The exact duration can be influenced by factors such as the individual’s immune system and overall health. While fever can fluctuate, its persistence beyond the typical timeframe may be a reason for concern.
The Full Scope of RSV Symptoms
Beyond fever, RSV infection presents with a range of other symptoms that can affect the respiratory tract. These commonly include a runny nose, coughing, sneezing, decreased appetite, and wheezing. Symptoms often appear in stages, rather than all at once, typically starting 4 to 6 days after exposure to the virus.
While fever may subside within a few days, other RSV symptoms, particularly cough and congestion, can persist for a longer period. Many people recover in one to two weeks, but some symptoms, like a lingering cough, can last for several weeks or longer, especially in more severe cases. For children, symptoms are often at their worst around days 3 to 5 of the illness. This distinction between the duration of fever and the overall length of other symptoms is important for understanding the course of RSV.
Recognizing When to Seek Care
Monitoring symptoms and knowing when to seek medical attention is important, especially for vulnerable individuals. Seek immediate medical care if there are signs of difficulty breathing, such as rapid, shallow breathing, nostril flaring, or chest muscles pulling inward with each breath. A bluish tint to the skin, particularly around the mouth or fingernails, indicates a lack of oxygen and requires urgent attention. Reduced activity, unusual tiredness, irritability, or poor feeding in infants are concerning signs.
A persistent high fever, generally over 102°F (39°C), or a fever lasting longer than 5 to 7 days, warrants a medical consultation. For infants under 3 months, any fever above 100.4°F (38°C) should be evaluated by a doctor promptly. Additionally, if symptoms worsen, if there are signs of dehydration, or if an individual with underlying health conditions experiences RSV symptoms, professional medical advice should be sought.