*The most frequent cause of infections in the lower respiratory tract is RSV.
*For certain adults who are at high risk, RSV can be harmful.
*RSV infection is thought to be the cause of 60,000 – 120,000 hospitalizations and 6,000–10,000 deaths among older people in the US each year.
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It's highly likely that you have previously become ill with RSV. Since RSV is usually confused with other respiratory infections that give symptoms similar to the common cold in the absence of a lab test to confirm the diagnosis, it's possible that you were unaware that you had the illness. You can contract RSV more than once, even within the same year, as you do not become immune to it entirely.
According to The American Lung Association, RSV can potentially cause severe illness. When an adult contracts RSV, they typically experience minor cold-like symptoms such runny nose, sore throat, cough, and headache. However, on occasion, and for certain individuals, you may become so sick that you require hospitalization. Additionally, hundreds of older adults in the US die from complications related to RSV every year.
What causes RSV in adults?
RSV is transferred from person to person through the inhalation of respiratory secretions (sore throat or nose) from infected individuals. Additionally, it can be contracted from coming into contact with dried respiratory secretions that are contaminated, such as beds or shared hard surfaces. Hand hygiene is crucial to prevent spreading RSV.
What is the duration of RSV symptoms?
Unless the infection is more severe, in which case it may linger longer, most infections go away in 1-2 weeks. Even when one is otherwise feeling better, the cough linked to RSV can persist for a longer period of time.
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What actions should you take if you have RSV symptoms?
Most of the time, supportive care is advised. This includes over-the-counter pain relievers and fever reducers, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen (Tylenol), as well as basic remedies like rest, drinks, saline nasal drops or sprays, throat lozenges, and decongestants (if safe to use). Cool-mist humidifiers are a great way to maintain mucosal and moist airways, especially if you live in a dry climate. They might also aid in reducing cough intensity and easing respiratory discomfort. You might need to visit your doctor or perhaps the emergency room, depending on the severity of your symptoms, if you are more susceptible or experience more severe symptoms.
How can an RSV infection be avoided?
Maintaining impeccable hand hygiene is the best defense against contracting or spreading RSV, particularly if you experience symptoms yourself or have come into contact with someone who does. Refrain from intimate physical contact such as kissing, hugging, shaking hands, or sharing any personal objects, especially kitchenware and utensils. Frequently use a disinfectant to wipe down any hard surfaces, such as counters, doorknobs, toilet handles, and cell phones. Furthermore, using a face mask helps stop respiratory illnesses from spreading from one person to another.
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