Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV): 5 important things to know

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common infection associated with respiratory disease in children, but can also pose a significant threat to adults, especially the elderly and those with weakened immune systems.

RSV infection in adults can have symptoms similar to a mild cold, but in some cases it can lead to more severe respiratory complications, such as pneumonia or bronchiolitis.

The virus is highly contagious and spreads quickly through breathing.

1. RSV vaccination is recommended for adults 60 years of age or older.

The CDC has issued a recommendation for RSV vaccination, specifically targeting adults 60 years of age or older, regardless of preexisting medical conditions.

Approved vaccines boost immunity against RSV infection.

VSRpreF is the only vaccine approved for pregnant women. The CDC recommends its use during weeks 32 to 36 of pregnancy to protect newborns, according to Medscape.

2. It is important to recognize which patients infected with RSV may be considered at high risk of developing severe disease.

Certain medical conditions increase the risk of severe disease from RSV infection in adults.

These include advanced age, chronic respiratory disease, cardiovascular disease, immunocompromised status, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, liver disease, functional impairment, malnutrition, and exposure to tobacco smoke or crowded environments.

3. There are no approved antiviral drugs for RSV infection, but numerous strategies are available to manage symptoms.

Treatment for RSV infection in adults is generally supportive and varies in symptom relief.

There are no specific antiviral drugs approved for the treatment of RSV in adults, but there are antiviral drugs in development.

Treatment measures may include relief of symptoms, administration of antipyretics, adequate hydration, administration of bronchodilators, oxygen therapy, spiraling and, in extreme cases, mechanical ventilation.

4. RSV infection in adults represents a significant threat to public health.

Each year in the US, RSV infection results in an estimated 60,000 to 160,000 hospitalizations and 6,000 to 10,000 deaths in adults 65 years of age or older.

RSV infection also generates direct costs to the health care system that exceed $1.3 billion annually.

5. RSV infections in adults can lead to various complications, especially in people with pre-existing health conditions or those in high-risk groups.

These complications include viral pneumonia, exacerbation of chronic respiratory conditions, bronchiolitis, hospitalization, acute respiratory distress syndrome, secondary bacterial infections, cardiovascular complications, and mortality.

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