We all know the vital precautions to keep babies safe from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). While the virus is the leading cause of infant hospitalization nationwide, it can also impact adults over age 60. Like many other serious infections, though, the symptoms of RSV can be difficult to distinguish from the common cold. We asked doctors how to recognize RSV symptoms in adults, when to seek medical attention and how to protect yourself from the virus.
What is RSV?
RSV is a common virus that infects the nose, throat and lungs, explains Christi Wojewoda, MD, FCAP, Chair of the College of American Pathologists Microbiology Committee. In most cases, the disease is mild, she notes.
The virus spreads in the fall and winter, along with other respiratory viruses, adds Tess Karre, MD, FCAP, Member of the College of American Pathologists Microbiology Committee. It can spread through infected respiratory droplets, which are released when an infected person coughs or sneezes, she explains.You can also become infected by having direct contact with someone who has RSV or by touching contaminated surfaces.
Who is most at risk of RSV?
Any person of any age can get RSV, say doctors. However, it is especially dangerous for infants and older adults over age 60, especially those with other chronic medical conditions, says Dr. Karre.
"For older adults, although you may be doing everything you can to stay healthy, the immune system naturally weakens with age and is less efficient at fighting off infections like RSV," she explains. "In addition, older adults are more likely to have chronic illnesses, which may place them at additional risk."
RSV in symptoms in adults
RSV symptoms in adults can appear very similar to the common cold, the flu or COVID-19. This may include coughing, sneezing, congestion, runny nose, fever, wheezing, fatigue and sore throat, doctors note.
Less common -- but potentially concerning -- symptoms of RSV in adults may also include significant shortness of breath, chest pain, bluish skin color (cyanosis), confusion, decreased appetite and earache, says Nikhil Bhayani, MD, Assistant Professor at Burnett School of Medicine at TCU.
Not sure how to tell if your symptoms signal a cold or RSV? It's more likely RSV if you're wheezing (a whistling sound when you breathe), as this is a common symptom of RSV that isn't usually present in a cold, the flu or COVID-19, Dr. Bhayani says. Additionally, RSV symptoms tend to worsen over time, while cold symptoms usually improve, he notes.
How to protect yourself from RSV
Vaccination is an important way to reduce your risk of developing RSV, doctors agree. RSV vaccines are recommended for all adults over 75, and for adults between 60 and 74 who have certain underlying health conditions such as chronic lung disease, heart disease or diabetes.
"You can protect yourself by practicing good hygiene, which would be covering your coughs and sneezes, washing or sanitizing your hands often and cleaning frequently-touched surfaces," adds Dr. Bhayani. He also recommends taking steps for cleaner air, such as using air purifiers.
How to manage RSV symptoms in adults
There is no specific treatment for RSV, but there are a few things you can do to care for yourself. Treating RSV at home focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing dehydration, says Dr. Bhayani. Here's what to do:
Drink fluids
It's important to obtain enough fluids to prevent dehydration, Dr. Bhayani explains. Keep a supply of cool water nearby and sip throughout the day. Also smart? Opting for some warm fluids like soup, too, which can help loosen secretions, he says.
Take pain relievers
You can take over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) to reduce fever and relieve a sore throat, doctors say. You can also take cough medicine.
Use a humidifier or saline spray
Dr. Bhayani suggests using a cool-mist humidifier or vaporizer to add moisture to the air and help with congestion and coughing. You can also use a saline nasal spray to keep your sinuses moist, he says.
When to see a doctor for RSV symptoms
"Don't hesitate to seek immediate medical care if you have wheezing, shortness of breath, blue or gray skin or lips, high fever or chest pain," advises Dr. Karre. "These could be signs of more severe disease that require emergency medical attention."
If you require hospitalization for your RSV infection, the treatments may include IV fluid to keep you hydrated and oxygen to help you breathe more easily, she says.