What is RSV?

RSV, which stands for respiratory syncytial virus, is a common virus that infects the nose, throat, respiratory tract, and lungs. Most people will get RSV at some point in their lives, often more than once, because immunity after infection is limited.

How does RSV spread?

RSV spreads easily through coughs, sneezes, and by touching contaminated surfaces. People can pass the virus on before they feel sick, which helps it spread quickly in households and communities. RSV typically circulates during the fall and winter months.

How does the immune system respond to RSV?

When RSV enters the body, the immune system first mounts an immediate defense by releasing antiviral signals and recruiting immune cells to help control the infection. It then builds a more targeted response by producing antibodies and activating T cells to clear the virus.

Some people can recover with mild symptoms. Others, like those with weakened immune systems or chronic health conditions, may become seriously ill because their bodies are naturally less able to control the virus.

How is RSV different from a cold or the flu?

RSV can feel like a cold or the flu at first, with runny nose, coughing, and a mild fever being common early symptoms. Unlike a cold or the flu, RSV is more likely to affect the lower lungs and, in some cases, lead to more serious complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis, or heart problems.

In fact, nearly 1 in 4 hospitalized adults aged 50+ with RSV experienced a sudden cardiac event. RSV can also progress from mild symptoms to more severe illness, particularly in people at higher risk.

RSV affects millions of people worldwide each year and is one of the more significant causes of serious respiratory illness in older adults.

What are the symptoms of RSV?

RSV symptoms often start mild and can worsen over time, especially if the infection moves deeper into the lungs.

Common symptom progression:

• Early symptoms may include: Runny nose, cough, sneezing, and mild fever.
• More advanced symptoms may include: Wheezing, persistent cough, difficulty breathing, fatigue, and reduced appetite.

Even though early RSV symptoms may be mild and easy to manage on your own, if they progress in severity to wheezing or difficulty breathing, that can signal a more serious illness that may require treatment from a healthcare provider.

How symptoms can vary by group

Symptoms are not always the same for everyone:

• Infants and young children: May experience feeding difficulties, irritability, decreased activity, and breathing problems. In some children, symptoms become more severe after a few days and can progress to wheezing, bronchiolitis, or pneumonia.
• Healthy adults: Often experience mild, flu-like symptoms including runny nose, cough, sneezing, low-grade fever, and reduced appetite.
• Older adults: May begin like the flu, but is more likely to develop severe symptoms, including breathing difficulties, worsening fatigue, and complications like pneumonia or heart problems.
• Immunocompromised individuals: Higher risk of more severe illness, complications, or a faster progression of symptoms.

How is RSV treated?

There are no approved prescription treatments for RSV in adults. Care focuses on managing symptoms while the body works to clear the virus.

Most mild to moderate cases can be managed at home with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications to reduce fever or discomfort.

In more severe cases, hospitalization may be required. Hospital treatment may include oxygen support, IV fluids, or breathing support to help the body recover.

Because treatment options are limited, prevention plays an important role. Vaccination can help reduce the risk of severe illness, especially for those at higher risk.

You can learn more about vaccination in the RSV vaccine guide or use VaxAssist by Pfizer to check your eligibility and book an appointment.

Who is eligible for the RSV vaccine?

In the United States, RSV vaccination is recommended for adults at higher risk of severe illness. This includes:

• All adults aged 75 and older
• Adults aged 50 to 74 at increased risk of severe RSV illness, due to certain underlying medical conditions such as heart disease, chronic lung conditions (like COPD or asthma), diabetes, or kidney disease

These recommendations are based on guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Because there are no approved prescription treatments for RSV, prevention plays an important role. Vaccination may not prevent every infection, but it can help reduce the risk of severe illness and complications, including hospitalization. As with any vaccine, side effects can occur, but they are typically mild and short-lived, such as soreness at the injection site, fatigue, or headache.

When should you see a doctor about RSV?

Most RSV infections are mild, but it’s important to know when to seek care and how to reduce your risk of severe illness.

Contact a healthcare provider if:

• Symptoms are worsening or not improving
• You or someone in your care is at higher risk
• You are unsure whether symptoms could be RSV

Call emergency services or seek immediate care if there are signs of severe illness, including:

• Difficulty breathing
• Chest pain or pressure
• Bluish lips or face
• Severe dehydration
• Confusion or difficulty staying awake

Knowing the symptoms, understanding your risk, and taking steps to protect yourself can make a difference. Check your eligibility and book an RSV vaccination in minutes using VaxAssist by Pfizer.