When we talk about respiratory illnesses, we often think of common culprits like the flu or cold. But there’s one condition that doesn’t receive as much attention, and yet it is more prevalent than you might imagine – Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Because it is often associated with children, it leads many to wonder: Is RSV something just kids can get?
First, it’s important to understand what exactly RSV is. White-Wilson Immediate Care Nurse Practitioner Tamara McKelvy explains that RSV is a viral infection that primarily affects the respiratory system. It’s highly contagious and can lead to a range of symptoms, from a runny nose and cough to severe respiratory distress.
In children, particularly infants, it can cause bronchiolitis and pneumonia, sometimes necessitating hospitalization. However, the impact of RSV doesn’t stop with the younger population.
“Yes, RSV is a significant concern for children, especially those under the age of 2 who are in daycare or school settings,” says APRN McKelvy. “But this is where the perception that it is just a children’s illness arises. While it’s true that children are more vulnerable to severe RSV-related illnesses, it’s important to understand that the myth about RSV no longer being a concern once you pass a certain age is just that – a myth.”
Contrary to popular belief, RSV can affect people of all ages, including healthy adults, elaborates APRN McKelvy. While the symptoms in adults are typically milder, they can still be quite uncomfortable – runny nose, cough and fever are common complaints. In some cases, it can lead to more serious complications (such as pneumonia), especially in older adults and those with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions.
“As we age, our immune systems may not be as robust as they once were,” says APRN McKlvy. “For adults 60 and over, RSV can be a particularly severe and sometimes life-threatening illness. It’s also common for it to be mistaken as a cold or the flu, which can delay proper diagnosis and treatment.”
The virus is highly transmissible and can be easily passed from person to person through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. So, if you are a caregiver, grandparent or simply spending time with children, you could be at a higher risk of contracting RSV.
In order to protect both children and adults, APRN McKelvy recommends taking preventive measures. Frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals and practicing good respiratory hygiene are all effective ways to reduce the risk of transmission.
The CDC recommends several additional measures for those who are considered high-risk. For infants and toddlers, an RSV vaccine can be given during pregnancy or an RSV antibody immunization after birth depending on the child’s age and the season. For older adults, an RSV vaccine can be received to reduce serious illness as a result of catching the virus.
“The bottom line is that everyone is susceptible to catching RSV,” says APRN McKelvy “While children may bear the brunt of severe RSV-related illness, adults, especially those over 60, are not immune to its impact. Recognizing the potential dangers of the virus beyond childhood is the first step in protecting ourselves and our loved ones.”
APRN McKelvy emphasizes that most RSV infections go away on their own in a week or two, but it is important to speak to your health care provider and take necessary steps to manage fever and pain and drink plenty of fluids. If you have difficulty breathing, staying hydrated or begin experiencing worsening symptoms, be sure to seek medical care as soon as possible.
“We have already seen a lot of illness this year, particularly strep throat, flu and RSV, but helping to determine what illness patients have and what is going to be most effective at helping them feel better fast, is what our Immediate Care team is here for,” reminds APRN McKelvy.
Tamara McKelvy, APRN is a registered nurse practitioner with White-Wilson Medical Center Immediate Care Clinic in Crestview. She has three decades of experience caring for patients with urgent and emergency conditions and enjoys providing patients with quick and impactful answers when they are sick or injured. Learn more about APRN McKelvy and her approach to patient care here.
