Signs of RSV

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can cause you to have a mild respiratory illness if you are a teenager or an adult, but can cause severe illness and death in babies, especially those born prematurely. The signs of RSV infections resemble those of other viral respiratory infections and might not be recognized as a potentially serious illness. According to the National Institute of Immunology, Allergies and Infectious Diseases and the National Library of Medicine, the signs of RSV include difficulty breathing and poor appetite.

Congestion

• Infection with RSV can cause you to make an excessive amount of mucus, which can cause congestion in your nasal passages and chest.

Cough

• In older children and adults, RSV can cause a mild dry cough, but babies can develop severe and frequent coughing spells.

Fever

• Babies with RSV can develop a high fever greater than 101 F, while older children and adults usually have a mild fever.

Difficulty Breathing

• Difficulty breathing is a sign of RSV that can lead to cyanosis (blue skin) in babies, which is a result of a lack of oxygen and is a medical emergency.

Pain

• You might have generalized body pain in your joints and muscles, as well as headaches as a result of RSV, and the pain can last for up to two weeks.

Poor Appetite

• Poor appetite is a sign of RSV in babies that might include a poor latch while breastfeeding or sucking on a bottle, refusal to eat or eating only a small amount.