Respiratory Syncytial Virus, commonly known as RSV, is a widespread respiratory virus that infects the lungs and airways. It is highly contagious and affects individuals of all ages. While RSV often causes mild, cold-like symptoms, it can lead to more serious illness, particularly in infants and older adults.
Typical Duration and Symptoms
For healthy individuals, RSV symptoms appear four to six days after exposure. These initial signs resemble a common cold, beginning with a runny nose and sometimes decreased appetite. Over the next few days, symptoms may progress to include coughing, sneezing, and a low-grade fever.
The peak severity of RSV symptoms occurs around days three to five of the illness. During this period, individuals might experience wheezing, a high-pitched whistling sound during breathing, as the virus can affect the small airways. Most healthy adults and older children find their symptoms gradually improve, with the illness resolving within three to eight days. However, a cough can linger for up to one to two weeks.
Variations in Duration and Severity
While many experience a relatively short illness, the duration and severity of RSV can vary significantly for certain populations. Infants, young children, and older adults are at an increased risk for more severe and prolonged infections. Individuals with weakened immune systems or underlying chronic heart or lung conditions also face a higher risk of complications.
In these vulnerable groups, RSV can lead to more serious lower respiratory tract infections, such as bronchiolitis, inflammation of the small airways in the lungs, or pneumonia, a lung infection. When these complications develop, the illness can persist for several weeks. Recovery time is substantial, often requiring supportive care and potentially hospitalization to manage breathing difficulties.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Recognizing warning signs is important, especially for those at higher risk of severe RSV. Medical attention should be sought if there is difficulty breathing, which may manifest as rapid or shallow breathing, gasping, flaring nostrils, or the chest caving in with each breath. A bluish discoloration around the mouth or fingernails, known as cyanosis, indicates a lack of oxygen, requiring immediate care.
Other signs include severe coughing fits that make it difficult to breathe or speak. Dehydration, evidenced by fewer wet diapers in infants, no tears when crying, or a very dry mouth, is a serious concern. If symptoms worsen after an initial period of improvement, or if a young infant develops a fever, consult a healthcare provider.