Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus affecting the lungs and airways. Though often associated with infants, RSV can significantly impact adults, sometimes leading to severe illness. It circulates during fall and winter. Understanding its effects on adult health is important for managing symptoms and preventing its spread.
Recognizing RSV in Adults
Adult RSV symptoms typically appear four to six days after exposure, resembling a common cold. These include runny or congested nose, sore throat, sneezing, cough, low-grade fever, headache, and fatigue. Unlike flu or COVID-19, RSV symptoms often emerge in phases and usually don’t involve sudden loss of taste/smell or significant gastrointestinal issues.
RSV can range from mild to severe. Most adults recover on their own. However, the virus can spread to the lower respiratory tract, causing pneumonia or bronchiolitis. Diagnosis involves a medical history and physical exam. If RSV is suspected, a healthcare provider might collect a nasal fluid sample for a rapid antigen or PCR test, most accurate within the first few days of symptom onset.
At-Home Care for RSV Symptoms
Managing mild to moderate RSV symptoms at home involves supportive care. Rest is important for recovery, allowing the body to conserve energy and fight the infection. Staying well-hydrated by drinking fluids is also recommended to prevent dehydration.
Over-the-counter medications help alleviate discomfort. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen manage fever and body aches. A humidifier can add moisture to the air to relieve congestion, while saline nasal sprays clear passages. Adults with underlying lung conditions like asthma or COPD may find relief from prescribed bronchodilators like albuterol if wheezing is present.
Medical Treatments and When They’re Needed
Most adults recover from RSV at home, but medical attention is sometimes necessary. Individuals aged 60+, those with compromised immune systems, or existing heart/lung conditions are at higher risk for severe RSV. Warning signs include difficulty breathing, high fever, persistent cough, or bluish skin around lips or nail beds, signaling insufficient oxygen.
Hospital care for severe RSV focuses on supportive interventions. Patients may receive supplemental oxygen to maintain adequate levels. IV fluids can be administered to prevent or treat dehydration. While RSV is viral, antibiotics may be given if a secondary bacterial infection, such as bacterial pneumonia, develops. Antiviral medications are not routinely recommended for adults; however, for immunocompromised individuals with severe illness, an antiviral like ribavirin might be considered, though its use is often off-label.
Preventing RSV Infection
Preventative measures reduce the risk of contracting and spreading RSV. Practice good hand hygiene by washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Avoid close contact with sick individuals and touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, as RSV can survive for several hours. Staying home when unwell helps prevent further spread.
Vaccination offers proactive defense against RSV for certain adult populations. Three RSV vaccines are available for adults aged 60 and older: Arexvy, Abrysvo, and mResvia. These are recommended for all adults aged 75+, and for those aged 50-74 with risk factors like chronic heart/lung disease or a weakened immune system. A single dose is administered; it is not an annual vaccine. For pregnant individuals, the Abrysvo vaccine is recommended between 32-36 weeks of gestation to protect newborns for their first six months by transferring antibodies.