The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes infection of the respiratory tract in children but can also infect adults. RSV infections in children are so common that by two years old, most children have been infected by the virus at least once.

In most adults and older children with good immunity, the symptoms of RSV are mild and similar to the common cold. However, in younger children (12 months and younger) and immunocompromised adults, RSV can cause severe infections that may require prompt medical attention at an emergency facility.

Symptoms Of RSV

The symptoms of RSV in adults and children appear about a week after exposure to the virus. For most older adults and healthy children, the symptoms are usually mild and resolve without intervention. Some signs of RSV infection are a dry cough and runny nose, sore throat, sneezing, headaches, or a low-grade fever (below 100.4F)

In infants and older adults, RSV can spread to the lower respiratory tract and cause bronchitis or pneumonia. RSV treatment in infants with severe infections must start immediately to prevent complications. Emergency facilities can provide the care and treatment needed for severe RSV cases.

RSV Associated Pneumonia

If the RSV spreads to the lower respiratory tract, the risk of developing pneumonia increases significantly in infants and older adults. If pneumonia sets in, the lungs’ airways get inflamed and filled with fluid, making it difficult for the patient to breathe.

Older adults and infants with severe RSV infection may require urgent medical care.

Signs that you might need immediate care in an ER near you include:

• High-grade fever
• Wheezing (a high-pitched noise when the patient exhales)
• Difficulty in breathing, especially when lying down
• Cyanosis (bluish color of the lips and skin due to lack of oxygen) in infants
• Irritability and poor feeding in infants

At Express Emergency Room in Waco we are equipped to provide urgent pneumonia and RSV care.

Children born prematurely with certain heart or lung conditions are more likely to develop chronic RSV infections. If your child or anyone at high risk of severe RSV infection has difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.

Is RSV Contagious?

RSV infections are extremely contagious and can spread through close contact with an infected person. Infected people can remain infectious for a few days (up to a week) after the initial symptoms appear. Infants or adults who develop severe infection can spread the disease up to 4 weeks after the initial exposure.

Protecting high-risk groups, children below the age of 12 weeks, premature babies and older, and immunocompromised adults from exposure to the virus are important. Washing hands thoroughly, avoiding close contact with infected people, and sanitizing touched surfaces and toys can help prevent the spread of the disease.

We provide immediate and compassionate emergency care for both children and adults dealing with infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and more. Our experienced medical team is ready around the clock to ensure you receive the highest level of care when you need it most.

Need immediate care?

Call us now or walk in to receive prompt treatment for your health concerns.