Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)

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Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a highly contagious virus that causes an infection with symptoms similar to those of a moderate to severe cold. RSV infection usually resolves on its own and does not cause major health concerns, but it can become a problem when it is severe or leads to pneumonia, bronchiolitis, or other complications.

Babies (especially those born prematurely or with heart or lung problems), people with immune system problems, and adults age 65 and older have an increased risk of developing complications from RSV infection.

Although reinfection with RSV is common throughout life, the first infection usually causes the most severe symptoms. Almost all children become infected with RSV by the age of 2 years.

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Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated	May 25, 2007

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Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC

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