RSV – Symptoms, Causes and Treatment
RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) is a common respiratory virus that primarily affects infants, young children, and older adults, causing symptoms similar to a cold or flu.
Wissenswertes über "RSV"
RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) is a common respiratory virus that primarily affects infants, young children, and older adults, causing symptoms similar to a cold or flu.
What is RSV?
RSV stands for Respiratory Syncytial Virus. It is a widespread RNA virus belonging to the family Pneumoviridae that infects the respiratory tract. RSV is one of the most common causes of respiratory illness in infants and young children worldwide. Older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems or chronic health conditions are also at heightened risk of severe disease.
Causes and Transmission
RSV spreads through direct contact with infectious respiratory secretions, including:
- Droplet transmission (coughing, sneezing)
- Contact with contaminated surfaces followed by touching the mouth, nose, or eyes
- Close physical contact with an infected person
The virus is most active during autumn and winter, causing seasonal outbreaks. The incubation period is typically 2 to 8 days.
Symptoms
Symptoms of RSV infection vary depending on the age and health status of the individual:
In older children and adults
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Mild fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- General feeling of illness
In infants and young children
- Wheezing or whistling sounds during breathing
- Rapid or labored breathing
- Bluish discoloration of the lips or fingernails (cyanosis) – a medical emergency
- Difficulty feeding and irritability
- Bronchiolitis: inflammation of the small airways – a common and serious complication in infants
In older adults and immunocompromised individuals
- Pneumonia (lung infection)
- Worsening of underlying conditions such as COPD or heart failure
Diagnosis
RSV infection is primarily diagnosed based on clinical presentation and physical examination. The following tests may be used to confirm the diagnosis:
- Rapid antigen test: Detects RSV antigens in a nasopharyngeal swab – fast and easy to perform
- PCR test (Polymerase Chain Reaction): Highly sensitive detection of viral genetic material, especially recommended for adults and immunocompromised patients
- Blood count and inflammatory markers to assess the severity of the illness
Treatment
There is no specific antiviral treatment available for most patients with RSV. Management is primarily symptomatic and supportive:
- Adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration
- Fever-reducing medications (e.g., paracetamol or ibuprofen)
- Nasal decongestant drops to ease breathing
- In severe cases: supplemental oxygen, nebulized therapy, or hospitalization
Prophylaxis with Palivizumab
Palivizumab is a monoclonal antibody used as passive immunization in high-risk infants (e.g., premature babies, children with congenital heart defects) to prevent severe RSV disease.
RSV Vaccination
Since 2023, new RSV vaccines have been approved in Europe and the United States for older adults (aged 60 and above). In addition, a monoclonal antibody called Nirsevimab is available for prophylaxis in newborns and infants. Vaccination of pregnant women can also protect newborns by transferring maternal antibodies to the unborn child.
High-Risk Groups
Individuals at greatest risk of severe RSV disease include:
- Premature babies and newborns
- Infants under 6 months of age
- Children with congenital heart or lung conditions
- Older adults (aged 65 and above)
- Individuals with immunodeficiency or chronic illnesses
References
- World Health Organization (WHO): Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). www.who.int
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): RSV in Infants and Young Children. www.cdc.gov
- Simoes EAF et al. – Respiratory syncytial virus. In: Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett's Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases. Elsevier, 2020.
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Related search terms: RSV + Respiratory Syncytial Virus + Respiratory Syncytial Virus infection