Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV): Who’s at Risk?

Infants and young children: RSV is the most common cause of lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI) in infants and young children. Children under 2 years of age are at the highest risk of severe RSV infection.

Premature infants and infants with underlying medical conditions: Premature infants and infants with certain underlying medical conditions, such as heart disease, lung disease, or immune system problems, are at increased risk of severe RSV infection.

Older adults: Adults 65 years of age and older are also at increased risk of severe RSV infection.

People with weakened immune systems: People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or those taking medications that suppress the immune system, are at increased risk of severe RSV infection.

People with chronic heart or lung disease: People with chronic heart or lung disease are at increased risk of severe RSV infection.