RSV Infection: What You Need to Know About Symptoms, Risks, and Prevention

When a child starts coughing, wheezing, and refuses to eat, it’s often RSV infection, a common viral illness that affects the lungs and breathing passages. Also known as respiratory syncytial virus, it’s not just a cold—it’s the leading cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in babies under one year old. Every year, over 58,000 children under five are hospitalized in the U.S. because of RSV, and nearly 14,000 adults over 65 die from it. Most people think it’s just a seasonal sniffle, but for infants, older adults, and those with weak immune systems, it can turn dangerous fast.

RSV symptoms, start like a mild cold but can quickly worsen with rapid breathing, flaring nostrils, and bluish lips. Also known as respiratory distress, these signs mean the airways are swelling and filling with mucus—something your body can’t clear on its own. Unlike the flu, RSV doesn’t usually cause high fever, so many parents miss the danger until their baby is struggling to breathe. Older adults with COPD or heart disease are just as vulnerable. The virus spreads easily through coughs, sneezes, and surfaces—daycare centers, nursing homes, and even grocery carts become hotspots.

RSV prevention, isn’t just about handwashing—it’s about knowing who needs protection and when. Also known as viral shielding, it includes monoclonal antibody shots for high-risk babies, avoiding crowded places during peak season, and keeping sick family members away from newborns. There’s no cure, but vaccines for seniors and preventive treatments for infants have changed the game. Still, most people don’t realize RSV peaks in fall and winter, or that a second infection can be worse than the first. The posts below cover real cases where RSV led to hospitalization, how to tell it apart from COVID or the flu, and what home care actually works when your child is struggling to breathe. You’ll find practical advice on recognizing early warning signs, managing symptoms safely, and protecting vulnerable family members without overreacting.