It is a typical childhood disease that can also affect adults.
Most occurrences are minor, with symptoms resembling a cold.
Pneumonia and bronchiolitis are brought on by a serious infection.

Due to stories of young RSV patients flooding hospitals in October and November of this year, parents of younger children may feel apprehensive. RSV, also known as the respiratory syncytial virus, is a common virus that can be deadly in young children, infants, and certain people.

During the winter, when people are travelling for the holidays and spending more time indoors and inhaling the same air, respiratory viruses including COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus frequently proliferate and reach their peak. Since mask use is being phased away after a few years of COVID-19 precautions, we have already been forewarned that this flu season is going to be difficult. However, RSV is now a further worry.

Anyone can contract RSV, but infants, young children, individuals over the age of 50, and those with impaired immune systems are most susceptible to the severe form, which can lead to pneumonia or bronchitis and necessitate hospitalisation.

Most children who contract RSV before turning two will recover at home, but it's crucial to be aware of the symptoms of a more serious virus in order to seek the care you require. Many respiratory viruses, including RSV, COVID-19, and the flu, cause coughing as a typical symptom. 

A common respiratory virus, respiratory syncytial virus spreads to people by minute droplets from the nose or throat of an infected individual. You contract it when these droplets come in contact with your eyes, nose, or throat. This can happen when you come into contact with an infected person, touch a contaminated surface, and then touch your eyes, nose, or mouth.

The virus can survive for hours on hard surfaces (like cribs), according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. RSV does not survive as long on tissues or soft surfaces like skin. The CDC reports that it is the most typical cause of pneumonia and bronchiolitis among infants under the age of one.

RSV is frequently contracted by kids at school or daycare and spread to other family members. However, the majority of adults will only experience little or no RSV symptoms. Some individuals, notably those who are older, have weakened immune systems, or have lung or heart conditions, may experience more severe illness or problems.

Since RSV is a viral infection, antibiotics are ineffective. RSV is normally treated with supportive measures, and over-the-counter drugs (but never aspirin for children) may help with typical symptoms like cough or congestion. Before giving your child any medication, even one that is not prescribed, you should talk to your doctor because not all medication ingredients are suitable for children and their developing, smaller bodies.

Ribavirin, an antiviral, and intravenous immunoglobulin may be used in the treatment of high-risk children who are seriously unwell. Adults with severe immunodeficiencies may also be considered for treatment. Almost all patients do not need these procedures.

Palivizumab, a monoclonal antibody, is available for high-risk newborns and kids, and preventative methods are also accessible. For kids who are more likely to end up in the hospital, it is administered as a monthly injection during RSV season. Babies that were born extremely early (before to 29 weeks), young children with immunodeficiencies, or kids with significant health issues including heart disease or neuromuscular disorders are some examples of eligible kids.

RSV is not yet immunised against, although researchers are working on it. The RSV vaccine from Pfizer was shown to be roughly 82% effective at preventing serious disease in babies who were delivered to them during the first three months of life when given to a pregnant person, according to encouraging data from its global trial released this week. During the infant's first six months of life, it was roughly 69% effective. International studies of Johnson & Johnson's vaccination in senior citizens have also begun.

Since RSV is a respiratory virus, many of the same safety measures we take for other viruses will lessen the likelihood that you or your child will contract it. This entails keeping away from those who are ill or showing symptoms, avoiding crowded indoor areas, and washing your hands before touching your face or eating.

When it comes to babies and younger children, prevention measures might include not letting anyone else hold, kiss, or touch your child if you're worried about getting the virus. The CDC recommends that people with any cold-like symptoms stay away from children who are more susceptible to RSV (you can also request that they wash their hands and wear a mask when holding your baby).