Respiratory syncytial (sin-SISH-uhl) virus, or RSV, is a respiratory virus that infects the lungs and breathing passages. Healthy people usually experience mild, cold-like symptoms and recover in a week or two. But RSV can be serious, especially for infants and older adults. In fact, RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lung) and pneumonia in children younger than 1 year of age in the United States. In addition, RSV is being recognized more often as a significant cause of respiratory illness in older adults.
Have more questions? See About RSV.
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About RSV
Describes the disease, its symptoms, treatment, how it spreads, prevention, and common patterns of infection in children -
For Healthcare Professionals
Information on clinical features, case management, diagnosis, laboratory testing, and prophylaxis for those at risk for severe illness -
Research & Surveillance
Information about seasonal trends, surveillance for RSV activity, prevention of RSV in Alaskan Natives, and a brief history of RSV -
Multimedia
RSV web feature and podcast, and infographic that can be embedded on web pages -
References & Resources
Selected scientific articles related to RSV
Learn more about preventing RSV
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Fast Facts
- Almost all children will be infected with RSV by their second birthday.
- RSV usually causes mild respiratory illness, but it can be serious, especially in infants and older adults.
- RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in children younger than 1 year of age.
- In the U.S., RSV infections generally occur during fall, winter, and spring.
CDC Featured Podcast
Dr. Eileen Schneider talks about RSV, a common cause of respiratory illness in young children.
Listen To This Podcast (4:22)
- Page last reviewed: November 4, 2014
- Page last updated: December 4, 2014
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