What is RSV?
What is RSV?
Respiratory synctial virus (RSV) is a virus that infects the respiratory
tract. Almost all children are infected with this virus by 2 or 3 years of
age. Adults are also susceptible to infection with RSV. The virus typically
affects the lower part of the lungs of infants and young children,
and the upper respiratory tract of older children and adults. The elderly
and persons with a compromised immune system also may experience
infection of the lower respiratory tract. The virus can be spread from
person to person, or from contact with the surface of a contaminated
object, such as a toy. Signs and symptoms include shortness of breath,
wheezing, cough, and runny nose. The sinuses and ears also may be
affected. The fall and winter seasons are typically the time of year with
the highest rates of infection with RSV, especially in infants born prematurely.
Due to the increased risk for severe complications in certain persons,
several preventative measures are recommended. Frequent hand-washing
is recommended to help prevent infection. Avoidance of exposure to
tobacco smoke is also recommended for prevention of RSV. Beta-agonist
bronchodilator medications, such as albuterol, may be used to alleviate
wheezing. Palivizumab (Synagis) is a monoclonal antibody that is used
for RSV prevention in children with increased risk for severe infection.