RSV RESOURCES

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)?

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What is RSV?

RSV is a common and contagious respiratory virus that usually causes mild symptoms but can be dangerous in older adults, including those with certain underlying conditions.
What are symptoms of RSV?

RSV can cause fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, congestion, headache, and tiredness. While most RSV symptoms are mild, in more severe RSV infections, shortness of breath or trouble breathing can occur.
What causes RSV?

RSV is a type of respiratory virus that can cause infections of the lungs and respiratory tract.
If I get RSV, how long am I contagious?

People infected with RSV are usually contagious for 3 to 8 days. However, some older adults with weakened immune systems can continue to spread the virus even after they stop showing symptoms, for as long as 4 weeks.
I thought RSV only affected babies. Can older adults get RSV?

Anyone can get RSV. There is an increased risk for severe disease in older adults, including those with certain underlying chronic conditions.
How serious is RSV for older adults?

RSV is a common, contagious respiratory virus that is usually mild but can severely impact older adults, including those with certain underlying chronic conditions.
If I’m healthy, do I need to be worried about RSV?

Being an older adult can put you at increased risk for severe complications due to RSV, even if you’re healthy.
How can I be tested for RSV?

There are various types of tests for RSV. Talk to your doctor about which test is right for you.
Is there a specific time of year that RSV is more common?

RSV infections commonly begin to occur during the fall, peak in the winter, and subside during the spring in most regions of the US.
How can I prevent RSV?
Some ways you can help prevent RSV infection are to:

Wash your hands

Keep your hands off your face

Avoid close contact with sick people

Cover your coughs and sneezes

Clean and disinfect surfaces around you

Stay home when you’re feeling sick

Learn more about RSV prevention

RSV and Underlying Conditions

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Why should I be concerned about RSV?

The body’s immune system typically weakens with older age and has a harder time fighting off infections, such as those from RSV. If you are an older adult, including if you have certain underlying conditions, you may be at a higher risk for severe infections from RSV. At your next appointment, talk to your doctor about your risk.
What underlying conditions can put you at increased risk for complications due to RSV?

Older adults, including those with asthma, congestive heart failure (CHF), or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), may be at increased risk of severe RSV infection. For older adults, including those with coronary artery disease (CAD) or diabetes, there is evidence to suggest you may be at increased risk of hospitalization due to RSV.
If I have diabetes, am I at increased risk of hospitalization due to RSV?

Evidence suggests that older adults, including those with diabetes, may be at increased risk of hospitalization due to RSV.
If I have CHF, am I at increased risk of complications due to RSV?

Older adults, including those with CHF, may have an increased risk of severe RSV infection. Additionally, evidence suggests that older adults with CHF may be at an increased risk of complications due to RSV, such as hospitalization.
If I have COPD or asthma, am I at increased risk of complications due to RSV?

Older adults, including those with COPD or asthma, may have an increased risk of severe RSV infection, which may lead to complications.

RSV Updates

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Is there a vaccine for RSV?

Yes, vaccination is available for older adults. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist and learn more about an RSV vaccine.
Is there a way I can get more information on RSV?

Yes! You can sign up here to receive emails with more information about RSV.

Ask Your Doctor About RSV

Visiting your doctor to discuss RSV?

To get the most out of your appointment, remember to:

Write down your questions.
Take notes or have someone with you to help listen.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions! Your health is
a top priority.

Here are some helpful questions you may want to ask your doctor.

Review the questions below that most relate to you for your next appointment.

As an older adult or an older adult with an underlying condition, should I be concerned about RSV?
What is my risk of complications due to RSV?
How could RSV impact my underlying condition?
Is there a test for RSV?
What can I do to feel better if I get RSV?
How long should I isolate if I’m infected with RSV?
What can I do to help prevent RSV?

RSV infection can be serious. Vaccination is available for older adults. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about RSV vaccination.

LEARN MORE ABOUT AN RSV VACCINE

Sign up to learn more about RSV REGISTER NOW

RSV RESOURCES

Ask Your Doctor About RSV

Visiting your doctor to discuss RSV?

RSV infection can be serious. Vaccination is available for older adults. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about RSV vaccination.

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