Raising Awareness About Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) During RSV Awareness Month

Every year, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Awareness Month is observed in October to educate the public about RSV, its symptoms, prevention, and the populations most at risk. It is a common virus that affects the lungs and respiratory tract. While it often causes mild cold-like symptoms, it can lead to severe complications, particularly in infants, young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

What is RSV?

Respiratory Syncytial Virus is a highly contagious virus that infects the respiratory system. It is one of the leading causes of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in infants and young children. Most people recover from it within a week or two, but the virus can be more dangerous for certain groups, including:

• Premature infants
• Infants under six months of age
• Children with chronic lung disease or congenital heart disease
• Older adults, especially those 65 and over
• Individuals with weakened immune systems

RSV spreads through droplets when someone coughs, sneezes, or through direct contact with contaminated surfaces. Because of its ease of transmission, outbreaks commonly occur during the colder months, making fall and winter RSV season.

Signs and Symptoms of RSV

RSV typically presents symptoms similar to the common cold. These symptoms may include:

• Runny nose
• Decrease in appetite
• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Fever
• Wheezing

In more severe cases, particularly in high-risk individuals, the virus can lead to pneumonia or bronchiolitis, causing:

• Severe wheezing or difficulty breathing
• Blueish skin due to lack of oxygen
• Dehydration
• Lethargy or irritability