Definition: RSV is an acronym for the Respiratory Syncytial Virus, a common cause of colds and bronchiolitis for infants and children.
Children usually develop symptoms of RSV about 3-5 days after being exposed to someone else who is sick with RSV, either by direct contact with their respiratory secretions or indirect contact with contaminated toys and other objects.
The symptoms of RSV infections can range from having a simple clear runny nose and occasional cough that can be treated at home, to severe difficulty breathing that may require hospitalization.
Other symptoms might include a low-grade fever, sore throat, headache, and irritability. Younger children, especially those under 2 or 3 years old, are most at risk for more severe symptoms, such as high fever, wheezing, difficulty breathing, a persistent cough, or apnea.
RSV Facts
- RSV season usually runs from November or December through March.
- Synagis is a monthly shot that can be given to high risk children, especially premature babies, to prevent them from getting RSV.
- It is not uncommon for RSV infections to linger for 1 to 3 weeks.
- Antibiotics do not help treat RSV, but may be needed if a child gets a secondary bacterial infection, like an ear infection.
Pronunciation: R.S.V.
Also Known As: Respiratory Syncytial Virus
Examples: Few things strike as much fear in parents of young children as RSV or Respiratory Syncytial Virus infections.
