RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) infects the lungs and respiratory system. It's so widespread that most children are infected by age two. Adults can be infected by the respiratory syncytial virus (sin-SISH-ul).
Symptoms
Infection with the respiratory syncytial virus often occurs four to six days after viral exposure.
Congested or runny nose
Dry cough
Low-grade fever
Sore throat
Sneezing
Headache
COVID-19 And RSV
RSV and Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are both respiratory viruses, and certain RSV and COVID-19 symptoms may be similar.
Causes
The respiratory syncytial virus enters the body via the eyes, nose, or mouth. It quickly spreads via the air on contaminated respiratory droplets.
Risk Factors
Most children will have been infected with the respiratory syncytial virus by the age of two, although they can be infected more than once.
Syncytial Virus Diagnosis (RSV)
A respiratory virus is often diagnosed by collecting a medical history and doing an exam. Many children may not need to be differentiated between RSV and a regular cold.