What is RSV?
RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, is a common virus that can cause respiratory infections such as a cold, bronchitis, or in some cases, bronchiolitis or pneumonia. It tends to circulate most during the fall and winter months.
RSV affects people of all ages, but it’s especially common in young children. In infants, older adults, or those with weakened immune systems, the infection can sometimes lead to more serious complications.
In most cases, RSV resolves on its own. That said, it's important to monitor RSV symptoms, especially in babies, seniors, or people at higher risk, to avoid complications.
How is RSV transmitted?
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) spreads mainly through respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks at close range. It often takes only brief, close contact for the virus to pass from one person to another.
This is why RSV is highly contagious in environments where people are in close proximity, such as:
- Daycares and schools;
- Long-term care facilities and hospitals;
- Multigenerational households.
RSV can also spread through surfaces
RSV isn't only spread through the air, the virus can survive for several hours on everyday objects and surfaces, such as:
- Toys;
- Doorknobs;
- Counters;
- Soiled clothing or tissues.
Why is RSV more common in winter?
RSV transmission increases in the fall and winter, when people spend more time indoors, often in spaces with limited ventilation. Close contact and poor air circulation make it easier for the virus to spread from person to person.
What are the symptoms of RSV?
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) often causes symptoms that are very similar to those of a cold or the flu, which can make it harder to recognize at first. Most people develop symptoms between 2 to 8 days after being exposed to the virus.
While RSV can affect people of all ages, some symptoms require closer attention in young children, older adults, and those with underlying health conditions.
The most common RSV symptoms include:
- Nasal congestion or runny nose, often with a sore throat;
- Dry cough, sometimes persistent and worse at night;
- Mild to moderate fever;
- General fatigue or low energy;
- Loss of appetite, especially in infants;
- Wheezing or rapid breathing in some individuals;
- Irritability in young children.
- In most cases, these RSV symptoms go away on their own after a few days.
What are the possible complications of RSV?
In most cases, RSV causes a mild respiratory infection that clears up on its own. However, in more vulnerable groups, such as infants under 6 months, older adults, or people with chronic lung or heart conditions, the virus can lead to more serious complications. These include bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways) or pneumonia. RSV can also worsen pre-existing conditions like asthma.
When should you see a doctor?
While most RSV symptoms resolve without medical treatment, it’s important to stay alert, especially in infants, seniors, and people with health conditions.
Seek medical attention promptly if you notice:
- Difficulty breathing, including rapid breathing or visible chest retractions;
- Persistent or high fever;
- Refusal to eat or drink;
- Unusual fatigue or changes in behavior, such as extreme irritability or lethargy;
How to relieve RSV symptoms at home
Most cases of RSV go away within a few days without specific medical treatment. That said, there are several home care strategies that can help relieve symptoms and improve comfort, especially for young children:
At-home care: helpful tips
- Offer fluids frequently, even in small amounts, to prevent dehydration.
- Encourage rest without pushing physical activity.
- Slightly elevate the head during sleep to make breathing easier.
- Use a humidifier in the room to reduce airway irritation.
- Gently clear the nose with saline solution, especially for babies.
Over-the-counter products: use with caution
Some over-the-counter options may help relieve RSV symptoms, depending on the person’s age and condition:
- Acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce fever and discomfort.
- Nasal saline sprays or rinses to clear the nasal passages.
- Avoid cough syrups or decongestants in young children, unless recommended by a healthcare professional.
How to prevent RSV ?
A few simple habits can go a long way in preventing the spread of RSV:
- Wash hands regularly;
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick;
- Keep symptomatic children at home to reduce transmission;
- Clean frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs, toys, and counters.
Is there a vaccine for RSV?
In Québec, the RSV vaccine is offered free of charge to certain individuals at higher risk, in order to help reduce serious complications.
Two main groups are targeted:
- Older adults, who are more likely to develop severe forms of RSV.
- Pregnant women, who are vaccinated during pregnancy to protect their baby from birth, by reducing the risk of complications that could lead to hospitalization.
The RSV vaccine is not part of the routine vaccination schedule for the general population, but it may be recommended based on age, health status, or seasonal risk.
What is the pharmacist’s role when it comes to RSV?
Pharmacists play a key role in both preventing RSV and supporting individuals with RSV symptoms. They can:
- Prescribe and administer the RSV vaccine in pharmacy, when the patient is eligible.
- Assess symptoms and help distinguish between a common cold and a more serious infection.
- Recommend over-the-counter products to relieve symptoms such as cough, fever, or nasal congestion, based on the person’s age and health status.
- Provide guidance on prevention, including good hygiene habits during RSV season or advice on vaccination.
- Offer clear and personalized information about available RSV vaccines or preventive treatments for people at risk.
- Refer to a healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or require further medical attention.
The information on this page does in no way replace the advice and guidance of health care professionals, and pharmacist-owners affiliated with Accès pharma chez Walmart can in no way be held professionally responsible for said information. At the time of publication, the information on this page was accurate, but it is subject to change.
