Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of coughs and colds.
Symptoms
Symptoms can include: a runny or blocked nose, a cough, sneezing, tiredness, a high temperature. Usually mild and self-limiting RSV can be severe in infants and older adults who are at increased risk of lower respiratory tract infection, including bronchiolitis in infants.
How do you catch Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)?
RSV is spread by the coughs and sneezes of someone who already has the virus.
Incubation period
2-8 days
Diagnosis
Based on the symptoms. Usually, self-diagnosed by the person who has the infection.
Prevention
Use a tissue to catch germs when coughing/sneezing, bin use tissues as quickly as possible. Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth if your hands are not clean. Wash hands with soap and water. Wash and wipe down toys and surfaces regularly. A vaccine is available which helps to reduce the risk of catching RSV. This is available through the NHS to people in certain risk groups and ages. It is also available privately through The Valley Pharmacy
Treatment
There is no specific treatment for RSV, although remedies are available from a pharmacist to help relieve symptoms. Some adults and children may develop a more severe infection may be treated in hospital.
