Davidson County
Health Department
HEALTH TO YOU A – Z
INFORMATION SHEET
Respiratory Synchtial Virus (RSV)
What is RSV?
RSV or Respiratory Synchtial (sin-SISH-ul) Virus is an infection of the lungs and respiratory tract
that is caused by a virus. RSV is very common and very contagious. Most children have had
RSV by the time they are 2 years old. RSV can also affect adults. RSV enters the body through
the eyes, nose, or mouth and spreads easily in nasal secretions or from coughing. This virus can
live for hours on toys, counter tops, door knobs, etc. RSV can spread for as long as a few weeks
after the infection begins. More RSV is seen from fall until spring. In adults or in older children
RSV is very similar to a cold, but in premature infants or babies with other health conditions RSV
can be serious. Adults with serious chronic health problems can also develop a serious infection.
What are the symptoms of it?
 After being exposed to the virus that causes RSV, it usually takes 4 to 6 days for signs and
symptoms of the infection to show.
 Congested or runny nose
 Dry cough (producing no mucus or phlegm)
 Low-grade fever
 Sore throat
 Mild headache
 In some cases RSV can lead to pneumonia or bronchiolitis with the following symptoms:
 Fever
 Severe cough
 Wheezing
 Difficulty breathing, rapid, shallow breathing.
 Bluish color to the lips and nails or to the skin
When should your child see a health care provider?
 Difficulty breathing
 Running a high fever, 102 or higher
 Bluish color to the skin, nails, or lips
 Any baby under 3 months of age that shows signs of illness
How is the RSV treated?
 There is no cure for RSV although babies under 2 at high risk can get Synagis, 5 doses.
 If child, over 3 months, is running a fever and your health care provider recommends an
over the counter fever reducer. Give as ordered by your doctor
 Encourage fluids to avoid dehydration.
 Moist air by using a cool-mist humidifier or vaporizer (make sure it is clean)
 Keeping baby in an upright position, makes breathing easier (elevate head about 3 inches)
 Wash all hands involved in care of the child frequently
How long should my child stay out of daycare?
If fever has been gone for 24 hours without the use of a fever reducer (Tylenol or Advil) and child
feels up to playing and eating and drinking normally, unless physician has told you otherwise.
PO Box 439, Lexington, NC 27293
(336) 242-2300
www.dchdnc.com