Symptoms of RSV  can be similar to a common cold, flu or COVID-19:

• Fever
• Cough
• Congestion (runny nose)
• Sneezing
• Wheezing
• Decrease in appetite

For very young infants with RSV, the only symptoms may be:

• Irritability
• Less activity
• Difficulty breathing

Most people who get RSV have mild symptoms and recover within 1 or 2 weeks.

Who Is at Risk for Serious Illness From RSV

Infants and older adults are at the greatest risk for severe illness and complications from RSV, including hospitalization.

RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in children who are under the age of 1.

Prevention of RSV

Adults may get a vaccine to help protect them from RSV.

• Vaccination against RSV is recommended for all people 75 years and older or for some people age 50 or older who have health conditions that put them at high risk for severe illness.
• Vaccination is also recommended for people who are 32-36 weeks pregnant between September and January. It can help protect the baby.
• RSV antibody immunization is recommended for all infants under 8 months during RSV season if their mother wasn’t vaccinated between 32- and 36-weeks’ gestation. It is recommended for infants 8 to 19 months old who have high risk conditions.

To learn more about RSV prevention options, talk to a member of your healthcare team.